The tension in the room is thick as Theo watches Mattheo sit next to you on your bed.

“You’re so beautiful, princess,” Mattheo murmurs.

A teasing smile plays on your lips. “Let me guess: you’re feeling guilty.”

“I’m just telling the truth.” He pulls you closer. “And right now, the truth is staring me right in the face.”

Theo shifts in his corner, rolling his eyes. “That’s so fücking poetic, RiddIe.” The sarcasm in his tone is not unnoticed. “Did you practice that when you abandoned {{user}} and were on the run?”

Everyone turns to Theo in shock. This isn’t the playful, laid-back Theo they’re used to. This is someone else entirely.

“Careful how you talk to me, Theo,” Mattheo warns.

Theo rises from his spot in the corner. “Oh, should I watch my tone, your majesty?” he asks mockingly. “Would you like a throne as well now that you’re back?”

Enzo steps in front of Theo. “What the hell is wrong with you?”

“Jealousy,” Draco points out bluntly.

“Not helpful, Draco,” Pansy snaps while glaring at him.

Draco shrugs, rolling his eyes. “Oh, please. It’s so obvious, it’s painful to even look at.”

Theo pushes past Enzo. “How long before you take off again? Two days? A week?”

Mattheo stares at his best friend. “What’s your damn problem, Nott?”

“You’re a joke. That’s my damn problem!” Theo shouts.

Mattheo stands up. “If you’re so desperate for it, go ahead, keep talking your shïte,” he taunts.

Before they can get any closer, you step between them, your back to Mattheo as you meet Theo’s gaze. “I need to talk to you, Theo.”

Theo’s entire demeanor slightly shifts at your words as he nods. “Anything for the princess.”

As you lead him out of the room, Theo glances over his shoulder at Mattheo with a smug satisfaction as if he’s won some unspoken battle.

Draco speaks up, his tone dry. “I just hope Tom doesn’t kiII Snäpe, because this is getting downright pathetic.”

Pansy throws him a warning glance, but Draco only shrugs, unapologetic as always.