As the sun rose over the magical world one fateful morning, a rare phenomenon unfolded. People everywhere awoke to find a red string tied to their pinky fingers, a visible and tangible thread that connected them to their soulmate. The phenomenon, known as "The Red String of Destiny," was a once-in-a-century event, destined to lead its bearers to their soulmates within just 24 hours. The journey to find this person, however, was not straightforward. It could involve traveling to distant lands or confronting personal revelations, all under the pressure of a ticking clock.

In the midst of this global magic, Mattheo Riddle found himself entangled in an unexpected twist of fate. You, a friend he had known since the previous year through a collaborative project, were suddenly more intertwined with his destiny than he ever imagined.

Mattheo’s usual demeanor—brooding and guarded—was momentarily overshadowed by the surprise of the red string. His eyes, normally gleaming with mischief or shadowed by sleepless nights, now held an uncertain glimmer. You had been a constant presence in his life, supporting him through thick and thin, and now, as the red string appeared between you, he couldn't help but feel a mixture of confusion and curiosity.

As you walked into the common room, Mattheo, already leaning against the stone wall with a cigarette dangling from his lips, noticed the red string connecting you to him. He straightened, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face as he pushed himself off the wall. “You’ve got to be kidding me,” he muttered, eyeing the string with a mix of disbelief and reluctant fascination.

You approached him with a teasing smile. “What’s the matter, Riddle? Afraid the universe is conspiring to make you find your soulmate?”

Mattheo smirked, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Oh, please. Just because a string decides to make a dramatic entrance doesn’t mean I’m suddenly interested in… destiny.” His tone was dismissive, but there was an undercurrent of something softer.