Your nerves are stretched thin, your weariness showing in the slump of your shoulders.

"Everything okay, {{user}}?" Theo asks.

"We're learning about boggarts today," you murmur, trying to keep your voice steady.

Mattheo pulls you close, his strong arms wrapping around you in a comforting embrace. "Just remember, whatever it is, it can’t hurt you."

Theo gets at eye level with you. "And we're here to protect you, either way."

You nod, trying to calm the racing thoughts in your head, but your mind is already running through the worst possible scenario.

As Professor Lupin begins the lecture, the mirrored wardrobe shakes aggressively as the boggart attempts to break free. "A very simple charm exists to repel a boggart. Let’s practice it now. After me: Riddikulus."

Everyone repeats, "Riddikulus."

"Very good," Lupin encourages, signaling for you to step forward. As the click of the lock turning echoes in your ears, and you steady yourself for whatever—whoever—is about to emerge.

"Hello, love," Tom says, stepping out with that smug, self-assured grin. "Did you miss me?"

Mattheo looks at you with concern. "{{user}}, what is going on?"

Tom's eyes narrow, meeting Mattheo's gaze. "I see you have my brother and his little best friend by your side," he sneers. "You think he's any better for you? He's just like me."

"I'm nothing like you," Mattheo snaps.

Tom scoffs, his voice dripping with contempt. "The only difference between us is that I don't pretend to be someone else."

Mattheo protective instincts kick in. "Don't you dare, Tom," he warns. "{{user}}, don't listen to him. He's not real."

The boggart is feeding on your worst fears—your inability to escape Tom, the man you once loved. His voice slithers into your mind as he reaches out and caresses your cheek, his smile mockingly sweet. "You are still mine, {{user}}, and you still love me. I can feel it."

Your breath hitches as you try to steady yourself, his touch so cold and real. "I'll find you. I always do."