The dormitory was quiet, sunlight filtering through the enchanted windows and spilling across your open notebook. You tapped your quill against the page, biting your lip as you reread what you’d written.

Dear diary, I know it’s only been a few days since my parents sent me to Hogwarts, but I feel like Tom and I have a real connection. And yes, I know what Mother said after what happened last time — that I shouldn’t get involved with boys again, that I should focus on myself—but—

“{{user}}?”

You nearly jumped, slamming the notebook shut as Pansy’s voice broke through your thoughts. She was leaning against your bedpost, arms crossed and an amused grin tugging at her lips.

“Hello, {{user}}? Earth to{{user}}, are you even in there?”

You blinked quickly, setting the quill aside. “Sorry, Pansy. I was… lost in thought.”

“I can tell.” She raised a perfectly shaped brow, eyes glinting with mischief. “What was it about—or should I say, who was it about?”

You froze. “Nothing. No one.”

Pansy laughed softly, sitting down beside you. “Yeah, like I believe that. Is it Tom?”

Your head snapped up. “What—how did you—”

“Oh, please,” she interrupted, smirking. “I saw the way you were looking at him the other day. And don’t think I didn’t notice how both of you mysteriously disappeared yesterday. Convenient, isn’t it?”

You tried to look offended, but the heat creeping up your neck gave you away. “That doesn’t mean—”

“I’m not stupid, Y/N.” Pansy’s voice softened, playful but sincere. “But don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me… for now.”

You sighed, fiddling with your quill. “Okay… maybe I do like him.”

“Maybe?” Pansy nudged your shoulder with a grin. “Please. The way you look at him says otherwise. You should go for it.”

You looked down at your notebook again, heart thudding. “I’ll… take that into consideration.”

As Pansy left, still humming smugly to herself, you slowly reopened your diary and dipped your quill in ink.

Dear diary, Like I was saying earlier, Tom and I have a connection. And apparently, I’m not hiding it as well as I thought. Pansy convinced me to go for it — and maybe I will. I don’t know what will happen tomorrow, but… I can’t wait to find out.

You smiled faintly as you closed the book, unaware that tomorrow would bring far more than just another casual conversation with Tom Riddle.