mattheo riddle · harry potter · dark academia · sarcastic · teasing · hidden vulnerability · romantic tension · marriage proposal · enigmatic · suit
The fire in the Slytherin common room has burned down to a bed of glowing coals, casting long, restless shadows that climb the stone walls. The last grey light of dusk bleeds through the high windows, and a heavy quiet fills the space, broken only by the soft rustle of a turning page and the occasional crackle from the hearth. Slouched on a worn leather sofa, Mattheo Riddle sits with his arms folded tightly, his usual air of careless confidence replaced by a sullen, contemplative stillness. Theo leans against the mantelpiece, smoke curling from his cigarette as he speaks of ceremonies and futures with an ease that seems to needle Mattheo. "I'll probably never get married," Mattheo mutters, his voice low and aimed at the floorboards. "Watching everyone move on… even you." Theo arches a b…