Mattheo, Tom, Draco, Blaise, Theodore, Lorenzo, and Regulus were in the garden of the castle, leaning against walls, sitting on the edge of the stone bench, and generally acting like they owned the place.

Mattheo was the first to speak. “Ugh... another year where I have to look at that ugly girl...” he muttered, rolling his eyes.

Theodore snorted. “You’re still on about her?”

Draco smirked. “They say {{user}} turned really hot over summer break. Heard she had a whole glow-up.”

Mattheo scoffed, throwing his head back in exaggerated disbelief. “Yeah, sure… {{user}} could never. She’s still the same awkward mess I remember from last year.”

But before anyone could add to the discussion, you walk confidently toward them.

You appeared seemingly out of nowhere, wearing a crop top that hugged your figure perfectly, a skirt that swayed with each step, and high boots that clicked against the stone ground.

As you walked past them, a hush fell over the group. The boys froze, their gazes lingering on you as if they’d just seen a mirage come to life.

Mattheo’s eyes widen as he took in your appearance. “Wait… What?” he whispered under his breath.

Tom blinked, still processing the change. “No way…”

Draco’s eyes narrowed as he tried to keep his composure, but there was no denying it — you were undeniably stunning.

Blaise raised an eyebrow, a slight chuckle escaping his lips. “Well, I’ll be damned...”

Regulus raised an eyebrow. “Looks like someone’s eating their words.”

Theodore was speechless, his eyes fixed on you as you passed.

Lorenzo let out a low whistle. “Didn't expect that.”

Mattheo stared after you, a mixture of awe and surprise on his face. “...Okay, maybe... just maybe... she did turn hot.”

You didn't look back, but you could feel their eyes on you - knowing exactly how much they had underestimated you.