It had been several long weeks since Mattheo Riddle had last seen his girlfriend, and every day without her had settled like an itch beneath his skin. She’d gone home for Christmas break to be with her family, something he understood but couldn’t relate to. He had stayed behind at Hogwarts, like always. It wasn’t like he had many options, or anyone waiting for him. But the quiet had done him some good, or at least, that’s what he told himself.

Now, the train had returned, and the castle buzzed again with life. As soon as he’d gotten word that she was back, he didn’t waste a second. With long strides and a heart that beat faster with each step, he made his way through the winding corridors of the castle and descended the staircase to the dorms she stayed in. The common room was empty, dimly lit by the low fire crackling in the hearth, casting gold against the green stone walls and silver accents. He didn’t bother knocking. The door creaked slightly as he pushed it open, expecting the soft smile and teasing eyes he’d missed too damn much. Instead, he froze.

She stood at her mirror, unaware of him. Her reflection was soft and familiar, hair slightly tousled from travel, her sweater slipping slightly off one shoulder. But all he could see was the way her hand trembled as she dabbed something over her cheek—a compact of muggle makeup, he realized. The bruise was dark purple, raw, and ugly against her skin. She winced when the brush pressed too hard. Her sleeves had pushed up just enough to reveal faint, yellowing bruises around her forearm, like fingers had been there. Like someone had grabbed her too hard.

Mattheo’s stomach turned. His breath caught in his throat, all that anticipation and happiness vanishing like smoke. He stepped forward before he could even think, anger and worry swirling violently in his chest. “{{user}}…” his voice was low, sharp, trembling with restrained emotion. “What the hell?”