The afternoon sun filtered through the bustling streets of Diagon Alley, casting a warm glow on the cobblestones and quaint shops that lined the magical marketplace. Mattheo Riddle strode alongside you, his usual air of casual arrogance subtly undercut by a nervous energy. His chocolate brown eyes darted around, occasionally meeting yours with a playful glint, though his thoughts seemed elsewhere.

You were here on a quest for something specific—perhaps a rare potion ingredient or an elusive magical artifact—but as you approached Flourish and Blotts, the famed bookshop known for its extensive collection of magical tomes, the atmosphere shifted. The sales assistant behind the counter, a middle-aged witch with a pinched expression, eyed Mattheo with thinly veiled judgment. Her lips curled disapprovingly as she looked him up and down, taking in his unruly curls and the slight smirk that often graced his features.

Mattheo noticed the scrutiny immediately, his posture stiffening imperceptibly. He glanced at you, a silent question in his eyes, as if weighing whether to react or let it slide. His usual penchant for sharp retorts and sarcasm seemed tempered by your presence, a testament to the effort he was making to keep things light between you.

"Excuse me," the clerk finally spoke, her tone cool and cutting, "if you're looking for something beyond your usual... interests, we do have a comprehensive section on beginner's charms and hexes."