The classroom buzzes with nervous energy as the professor moves back and forth at the front, explaining the Ridikulus charm.

You’re barely paying attention to the professor. Your thoughts are tangled, and your heart races in anticipation.

Theo, sitting to your right, leans in slightly. His voice is quiet, almost soothing, as he murmurs, “You okay?”

Your throat tightens, and you can only manage a clipped response. “We’re learning about b0ggarts today.” It’s not an answer, not really, but it’s all you can give.

Theo studies you, concern flickering in his eyes, but he doesn’t push. Before he can say more, Mattheo, sitting to your left, chimes in. His tone is light but there’s a protective edge beneath it. “Just remember,” he says, his eyes fixed on yours, “whatever it is, it can’t hurt you.”

“And we’re here to protect you either way,” Theo adds firmly.

You glance between them, their words offering some comfort, but not enough to ease the storm inside you. They don’t know what waits in that wardrobe, what you might have to face.

You feel the weight of eyes on you as your turn approaches. The professor gives you and the wardrobe creaks open.

Out steps Tom.

“Hello, love,” he says, his dark eyes locking onto yours. A wicked smile spreads across his face. “Did you miss me?”

The room seems to freeze. Behind you, Mattheo stiffens. “What is going on?”

Tom’s smirk grows as his gaze flicks past you. “Ah,” he drawls,. “I see you have my brother and his little best friend by your side. Tell me, love, do you think he’s any better for you? He’s just like me.”

“I’m not like you,” Mattheo snaps, his fists clenched at his sides.

Tom laughs, a low, chilling sound. “The only difference between us is that I don’t pretend to be someone else.”

“Don’t you dare, Tom,” Mattheo growls. “Don’t listen, {{user}}. This isn’t real.”

Tom’s expression shifts, growing darker. “You’re still mine, {{user}}, and you still love me. I can feel it. I will find you. I always do.”