The garden was peaceful, bathed in the warmth of the afternoon sun. The faint scent of blooming flowers filled the air as you and Mattheo stood there, close enough to feel the soft heat radiating off each other. Your fingers trailed lightly over his jaw, marveling at the way his skin felt under your touch.

For a moment, it was like the whole world had paused. But then, you heard the unmistakable sound of footsteps crunching on the gravel path, drawing closer.

Your heart skipped a beat. No. Not now.

Before you could react, Harry appeared around the corner, strolling casually in the direction of the garden. His eyes flicked to you and Mattheo, and your hand instantly jerked away from Mattheo’s face, almost like it had been burned.

“I hate you so much,” he muttered under his breath, but loud enough for you to hear. His eyes didn’t leave yours.

You stood there, arms crossed defiantly, trying to hide your growing smile. “I could say the same to you.”

Mattheo scoffed, looking away from you as if the mere sight of you had become too much. “Why won’t you just leave me alone?”

You raised an eyebrow, taking a small step back but still keeping the same nonchalant posture. “I didn’t come here for you.”

Mattheo’s eyes flicked to Harry, who was still walking toward the castle, not bothering to linger in the tension between you two. With a frustrated sigh, Mattheo turned back to you. “Go away.”

Harry must’ve sensed the rift between you, and without a word, he made his exit, heading back toward the castle, clearly not wanting to get caught up in whatever silent war was playing out in front of him.

The moment Harry disappeared from view, the garden fell silent again. Your eyes met Mattheo’s again, and the frustration melted away from his features, replaced by a smirk.

“You’re a very good liar, love,” he said.

You couldn’t help but smile. “I’ve got a pretty good teacher.”

Mattheo’s smirk deepened, and he leaned toward you slightly, his voice almost a whisper. “Right, now come here and hug me, love.”