The dungeons were quiet as you made your way toward the Slytherin common room, torchlight flickering against stone and throwing long, shifting shadows. Your footsteps echoed softly until a voice called out behind you.

“{{user}}!”

You stopped and turned. Ron Weasley strode toward you, leaning casually against the wall once he reached you. His grin was sharp, his tone sarcastic. “Where’s your scary boyfriend?”

You crossed your arms, expression calm. “Probably off doing scary boyfriend things.”

Ron chuckled. “What—brooding in the shadows? Practicing his glare? Intimidating first-years?” His words carried more amusement than fear.

You smirked faintly. “Sounds like you’ve been paying a lot of attention. Jealous?”

“Jealous?” He scoffed, pushing off the wall. “Please. What’s there to be jealous of? He’s just a bloke who glares at everyone like the world owes him something. Doesn’t exactly scream prince charming, does it?”

Your tone stayed smooth. “And yet… I chose him.”

Ron faltered for half a second, then smirked again. Before he could answer, footsteps echoed at the far end of the hall. Mattheo rounded the corner, shadows sharp across his features, his gaze locking onto you before sliding to Ron.

The air grew heavier. Ron didn’t flinch—if anything, his grin widened. “Speak of the devil.”

Mattheo’s voice was low, measured. “Problem here?”

Ron shrugged easily. “No problem. Just chatting.”

Mattheo’s dark eyes lingered on you, silently asking if Ron had crossed a line. You gave the faintest shake of your head.

Ron caught the exchange and smirked. “Well, I’ll leave you two to your scary couple things.” He bowed mockingly and strolled off down the corridor, whistling.

When his footsteps finally faded, Mattheo stepped closer, his presence warm against the chill of the dungeon air. His expression softened only slightly as his eyes searched yours.

“…Well? What do you want me to do about it?”