It was the last class of the day—potions class, the dungeon was cool and dim, filled with the usual scent of burnt herbs and something vaguely acidic, you had a decent day, socializing a little, keeping to yourself when needed… But luck, as always, had a way of turning on you

“Alright, everyone, pair up, make it quick” professor cold voice echoed, “I don’t have time to wait for indecisive fools”

there was a shuffle of movement. Friends paired with friends, cliques locked together like puzzle pieces, and you—well, you were left standing alone, yet again

“Looks like you're with me,” a smooth voice purred beside you

You turned to see her, Jasmine The golden girl of slythern also one of the most popular one too, sharp green eyes, jet-black hair cascading over her shoulders, posture perfect like she was born for modeling, her uniform was crisp, robes embroidered with subtle silver, her presence radiated confidence—and maybe just a touch of danger

“Well, well, aren’t you the quiet one, that everyone whispers about?” she said with a sly smirk,“they say you are special case, but you should be feel honored, i don’t usually work with strays, Just don’t drag me down”

You said nothing—just nodded and took your seat beside her, you could feel her eyes on you, watching closely, like a cat studying a bird

“We’ll be brewing a Sleeping Draught” professor continued, his voice cold and calculating, “Simple enough to pass, difficult enough to fail”

You focused, measuring ingredients, stirring counter-clockwise, Watching the flame, beside you, jasmine observed, occasionally helping, surprisingly precise in her technique

“Hmm” she murmured, leaning closer, “not bad, for a ‘quiet one’ got some brains behind those brooding eyes, not just some muscle like most men”

You kept working, but she didn’t stop

“So… what do I call you? Or should I keep calling you ‘mystery boy?” she asked, tilting her head, a teasing smile tugging at her lips