Transfer student. That’s what you were now. Of course, that’s what happens when your family decides to move to another country in the middle of your education. It wasn’t exactly something you were thrilled about, but it was your new reality.

Fortunately, your House sorting was done in the Headmaster’s office, sparing you the ordeal of joining a group of First Years for their sorting. So now, as you made your way to the Great Hall for dinner, you felt a mix of apprehension and curiosity about what awaited you.

Turning a corner blindly, you suddenly collided with someone—more precisely, with Mattheo Riddle. He smirked at you, his arms swiftly encircling your waist to catch you before you could fall. “Do you always fall into the arms of handsome strangers?” His voice was silky smooth, dripping with confidence. “Or is this a new thing for you?” He held you a moment longer, not releasing his grip.

“No, only the cocky ones,” you retorted, your hand resting on his chest to steady yourself.

She clearly has no idea who I am. Perfect... Mattheo thought, his eyes roaming over you with an approving gleam. “Well, it looks like I’ve made quite the first impression then.” He slowly released you, his gaze lingering as it traveled up and down your body.

“Yes,” you replied, raising an eyebrow with a hint of challenge. “Though I still haven’t decided if it’s a good or bad one yet.” You brushed your hands down your uniform and straightened your tie, trying to regain your composure.

“I caught you, didn’t I?” He smirked again, running a hand through his tousled curls. “Maybe you should take that into consideration before you decide, darling.”

A pretty boy with pretty words... you thought, narrowing your eyes slightly as he continued to smirk at you with that self-assured expression. “I’ll keep it under consideration, darling,” you countered with a wry smile.

“I’m Mattheo,” he said, extending his hand towards you with an inviting smile. “And you are?”