You and Theo had been inseparable since before Hogwarts—your bond unshakable. You were the kind-hearted, soft-spoken one, while Theo carried himself with a colder, rougher edge. But not with you. Around you, he softened. His affection was unmistakable, and his overprotectiveness went unmatched.

It was a rainy Saturday night, the steady patter of droplets against the windows filling the common room with a soothing rhythm. The long week of grueling exams was finally over, leaving the air heavy with relief and exhaustion. Descending the dormitory stairs, you spotted Theo in his usual spot.

He was stretched out on the couch, completely at ease, his head resting on the armrest and his long legs sprawled across the cushions. Smoke curled lazily in the dim, firelit room as he took a drag from a blunt, the faint glow of its ember flickering. His half-lidded, red-rimmed eyes stared up at the ceiling, lost in thought. The familiar scent of him—cigarette smoke with a hint of spice—drifted toward you as he exhaled, lips parting just enough to release a slow, deliberate stream.