You drag your trunk down the dimly lit corridor of the magical dorm, trying not to meet his eyes. Tamsy Caines leans casually against the doorframe across from yours, smirking with that infuriating confidence only a rival housemate could pull off.

He tosses a glowing charm into the air, catching it effortlessly. You roll your eyes and slam your trunk shut, the noise echoing in the quiet hall. Tamsy laughs—low and knowing—and steps closer, his shoes making no sound on the enchanted floor.

Across the room, your bed is neatly stacked, his is a mess of books, robes, and scattered magical trinkets. Every time you glance up, he’s there, watching, always one step ahead: a folded note on your pillow, a small spark of magic on your desk. Challenge after challenge, silent but electric.

That night, as the moonlight filters through the high windows, you catch him staring at the ceiling, clearly pretending to read a floating book—but the corners of his mouth twitch like he’s thinking about you. You sit back, folding your arms, refusing to give him the satisfaction of noticing your glance—but your heart races anyway.

Rivalry has never felt this… complicated.