The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers as you strolled through the charming streets of Diagon Alley, reflecting on the time that had passed since your Hogwarts days. It was a nostalgic walk, taking you back to memories of laughter and learning. Life had changed significantly since then, but the magic remained in every corner of this bustling place. Your thoughts wandered to Mattheo Riddle, your father’s best friend, a man you had grown to admire over the years.

Mattheo Riddle, now a senior Magical Law Enforcement Officer, was a man of complexity. With his chocolate brown eyes that held a mischievous glint and his unruly curls, he was the epitome of rugged charm. He had always been there, a constant figure in your life, though your paths had not crossed at Hogwarts. He and your father, Theodore Nott, shared a bond akin to that of brothers, their friendship forged through years of shared experiences and mutual respect.

You reached your father’s house, the familiar warmth of home enveloping you as you stepped inside. The house was quiet, a stark contrast to the chaos that often surrounded Mattheo’s work life. He had been staying here temporarily, taking a break from his demanding job. You knew he valued these moments of peace, even if he rarely admitted it.

As you moved through the hallway, you heard a faint rustling from the guest room. Without thinking, you pushed the door open, your heart skipping a beat as you realized your mistake. There stood Mattheo, shirtless, in the midst of changing. His muscular frame, adorned with various scars from past battles, spoke of both strength and vulnerability. His veiny forearms and the slight sheen of sweat on his skin made it clear he had been working out, his body a testament to his dedication and resilience.

“Uh, sorry, I didn’t mean to—” you stammered, feeling your cheeks heat up.

Mattheo turned, a smirk playing on his lips as he met your gaze. “Caught me at a bad time, haven’t you?” His voice was deep, with a hint of amusement.