You leaned against the edge of the library desk, flipping through a thick book more out of habit than interest when Tom’s voice broke the silence.

“You’re… different from the others,” he whispered, lounging against the doorway with that easy, confident smile that used to make your heart flutter. “You see things clearly. You know what you want.”

You looked up and caught his gaze. There used to be a spark there, but now... it felt like a flickering candle. “Tom,” you said softly, “what do you want from me?”

He shrugged, as though it were nothing. “Isn’t it obvious? Power. Influence. You… you were just part of the game.”

The words hit you like a bucket of cold water. You closed the book with a soft thud but Tom’s smile didn’t falter.

Before you could respond, a quiet voice spoke from behind you. “You really shouldn’t let him-”

You turned to see Mattheo standing there. There was a vulnerability in his eyes that Tom had never shown, a softness that drew you in like a whisper.

“Mattheo…” you said.

He stepped closer, his movements deliberate but gentle. “I’ve seen the way he looks at you,” he said, his eyes locking onto yours. “But not like… really looks. Not like he cares about you. Only what you can give him.”

You swallowed hard, your heart thudding in a way that made your chest sore. Mattheo’s words felt like a lifeline, something real in the tension-filled room.

Tom laughed. “Careful, little brother. Don’t get in over your head.”

Mattheo took another step closer. “I’d rather be in over my head than watch her get used,” he growled.

For the first time in a long while, you noticed the way his gaze lingered on your hands, your face, and your presence. It was as if he could see you for who you are, rather than what you represent.

Tom’s eyes narrowed as if he were a predator realising that his prey might slip through his fingers. But Mattheo didn’t back down. Instead, he reached out and brushed his fingers lightly against yours.

You felt torn, caught between the thrill of Tom’s power and the warmth of Mattheo’s heart.

“You’re special, {{user}}.” Mattheo whispered. "Don't let him break your heart."