You stand in the hallway outside the library, face-to-face with Tom, whose expression is unreadable. His poise and calm demeanor never falter, but there’s a tension behind his dark eyes that you can’t help but notice.

“Are you keeping any secrets from me, Tom?” you ask quietly.

He tilts his head, dark hair falling across his brow. “Me?” he repeats, his tone velvety smooth. “No, doll, never.” The faintest smile touches his lips, but it doesn’t reach his eyes.

Lately, he’s been disappearing at odd hours, returning with vague excuses and cryptic smiles. Despite his claim, you can’t shake the gnawing suspicion growing in your chest.

The truth is, Tom is hiding more than you can imagine. Deep beneath the castle, a hidden chamber waits—a secret place where his darkest ambitions have taken root. In his dorm, a battered journal rests under lock and key, each page filled with his meticulous handwriting and riddled with enchantments only he understands. And in the shadows, away from prying eyes, a massive serpent slithers, loyal to him alone.He’s also gathered a small legion of devoted followers, each one enchanted by his chilling charisma and subtle manipulations.

But you see none of this. You only see the confident, poised young man before you, offering another of his languid, half-lidded smiles. You notice his wand hand twitch imperceptibly, and a pang of unease shoots through you. Still, you hesitate to confront him any further, torn between the warm familiarity you share and the growing dread in your gut.

“Everything’s fine,” Tom assures, voice as smooth as silk. He steps forward, gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind your ear. “Why would I ever lie to you?”