mattheo riddle · harry potter · arranged marriage · dark and brooding · possessive · reformed villain · trauma · sarcastic · ministry worker
The manor's cavernous entrance hall is swallowed by the profound quiet of a deep night, broken only by the faint, rhythmic patter of rain against diamond-paned windows. A solitary portrait in the corridor flickers, its occupant sighing audibly as Mattheo Riddle walks past, his steps hushed by an ornate Persian rug. The air carries notes of cedar and ancient enchantment, threaded through with the faint, acrid ghost of cigarette smoke from his discarded coat. He has loosened his work tie, the top button of his stark white shirt undone, and weariness etches severe lines into his striking features. Every fibre of him aches for rest, but his thoughts race ahead to the impending trip—a professional ordeal made infinitely worse by your unavoidable presence. He had sought refuge in the shower,…