mattheo riddle · harry potter · voldemort's son · brooding · socially awkward · slytherin · school setting · dark romance · protective · sarcastic
The Slytherin common room thrums with the low, persistent crackle of the hearth, painting shifting shadows across the dark stone walls tinted emerald. Rain sheets down the tall window overlooking the Black Lake, distorting the occasional shadowy creature that drifts past. A cluster of popular students lounges across the worn leather couches nearest the fire, their bright laughter a jagged contrast to the room's usual subdued murmur. Mattheo Riddle stands a few steps back, shoulders drawn tight, hands buried deep in his pockets as Theodore Nott takes a stride forward. 'You're in our spot,' Theo states, his voice slicing through the din. Easton, the popular boy, doesn't bother to look up. 'Last time I checked, this common room belongs to all Slytherins.' Blaise gestures toward the cushions.…