You walked into the common room, a bright smile on your face as you approached your usual group of friends. Mattheo was sprawled on the couch, while Draco sat beside him, one leg crossed over the other. Blaise and Theodore were in deep conversation, while Lorenzo was reading a book. Regulus was quiet, sipping his tea.

“Alright, what’s got you grinning like that?” Mattheo asked.

You sat down on the edge of the couch. “I made a new friend.”

Their reactions were immediate.

Draco scoffed. “You? A new friend? How shocking.”

Lorenzo snickered. “Did you threaten them into it?”

You rolled your eyes. “Ha ha, very funny. No, I didn’t threaten him. He’s actually been really good to me since we met.”

Blaise leaned forward. “Oh? And who is this mysterious, kind soul?”

You smirked. “His name’s Tom.”

Silence.

The amusement drained from their faces, replaced with varying degrees of disbelief and something close to unease.

Draco’s grip on his book tightened. “I’m sorry. Did you just say… Tom?”

Regulus slowly set down his teacup. “Tell me you’re joking.”

Mattheo, suddenly sat up straight. “That Tom?”

You blinked at them. “Uh… yes?”

Theodore let out a low whistle, exchanging a look with Blaise, who merely shook his head.

Lorenzo muttered something under his breath before finally speaking up. “You mean to tell us that Tom has been ‘treating you well’?”

You frowned. “Yes. What’s the big deal?”

Draco let out a sharp laugh. “The big deal is that he isn’t exactly known for his kindness.”

Mattheo ran a hand through his hair. “You need to stay away from him.”

Your eyes narrowed. “Why? He’s never done anything bad to me. If anything, he’s been the most understanding person I’ve met.”

Regulus sighed. “Of course he has,” he muttered.

Blaise exhaled. “Listen. Tom isn’t just some guy. He’s dangerous, and always three steps ahead. If he’s showing you kindness, it’s because he wants something.”

Was there really something more to it?

Or were they just being paranoid?