The rain lashed against the tall windows of the Slytherin common room, each drop a tiny drumbeat against the glass. Inside, the fire crackled merrily, casting dancing shadows across the plush green velvet sofas and the polished dark wood. You were curled up on one of the sofas, a thick, ancient tome open on your lap. Your eyes, usually sharp and calculating, were soft you traced the faded ink of a particularly obscure charm.

The door to the common room opened with a soft whoosh, admitting a gust of damp air and Evan Rosier. He was tall, with the kind of lean, aristocratic build that seemed to absorb the dim light rather than reflect it. His usually impeccably styled blonde hair was slightly damp, and a few stray raindrops clung to his dark robes. He paused for a moment, his sharp, intelligent eyes scanning the room until they landed on you. A small, almost imperceptible smile touched his lips.

He walked over, his footsteps silent on the thick carpet, and sank onto the sofa beside her. He didn’t say anything, just leaned his head back and closed his eyes, breathing in the familiar scent of old books and the faint, exotic perfume that always seemed to cling to you.

You, without looking up from the book, reached out and gently ran her hand through his damp curls. “Rough day?” you murmured, your voice a low, husky purr.

Evan let out a soft sigh. “The usual. Potions class was a disaster. Professor Slughorn insists on demonstrating the more volatile aspects of brewing without adequate safety precautions. Nearly lost an eyebrow.”

You finally closed your book, your eyes meeting his blue ones. “You always manage to keep your eyebrows, Evan. A testament to your skill, or perhaps just exceptional luck.”

He chuckled, a low, rumbling sound that vibrated through the sofa. “A combination of both, I suspect. And perhaps a little bit of your influence. You’ve been practicing those shielding charms on me, haven’t you?”

You gave him a slow, feline smile. “A witch must protect her investments, wouldn’t you agree?”

He reached out, his fingers brushing against yours, sending a jolt of warmth through you. “Indeed. And you, my dear, are a most valuable investment.” He leaned closer, his gaze dropping to your lips.