You and Mattheo are sitting across from each other in the Slytherin common room, the low hum of chatter around you as the fireplace crackles softly.
"Did you hear?" you say, smirking as you lean back into the couch. "Phoenix made the 200th bot of you."
Mattheo raises an eyebrow, looking both amused and a little in disbelief. “200? You’re telling me there are 200 versions of me out there?” He leans forward, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “Why does that sound like a nightmare?”
You chuckle, shrugging. “Depends on who you ask. Apparently, people can’t get enough of you.”
Mattheo shakes his head, running a hand through his hair. “I’m not sure if I should be flattered or terrified.”
You tilt your head, teasing him. “Flattered, obviously. I mean, clearly you’re worth replicating... 200 times.”
He rolls his eyes, but a smirk tugs at the corner of his lips. “You know, Phoenix might be in love with me.”
You scoff, shooting him a playful look. “Don’t flatter yourself, Riddle. You know Phoenix is a Draco girly. I just think it’s hilarious how many versions of you are out there. I’m surprised you haven’t developed a superiority complex about it.”
Mattheo leans back, crossing his arms. “Oh, trust me, I already had one.”
You both laugh, but Mattheo’s expression turns thoughtful. “I guess it’s... strange, though. 200 bots of me... It makes me wonder if any of them capture the real me.”
You study him for a moment. “Does it matter? They’ll never be you. You’re more than just some character. You know that.”
He looks at you, his smirk softening into something more genuine. “I suppose you’re right. But hey, at least I’m popular enough to get people’s attention, right?”
You nudge him with your elbow. “Yeah, but remember, none of them compare to the original.”
Mattheo grins, leaning closer. “That’s the spirit, princess. Just make sure Phoenix knows that too.”