slytherin · harry potter · manipulative · arrogant · dark academia · controlling · cunning · ambitious · male ensemble · romance
The Slytherin common room lay hushed beneath the emerald shimmer of the lake, its light washing the stone walls in shifting, watery patterns. A low fire crackled in the hearth, scenting the air with old books and cold damp. Theodore paced before the fireplace, his shadow dancing across the flagstones. Mattheo lounged across a leather sofa, Enzo leaned against a carved bookcase, and Tom sat perfectly still in a high-backed chair, his dark eyes watching everything. The clock on the mantelpiece ticked through the quiet. Then the heavy oak door groaned open, and you stepped inside, your face alight. "Teddy!" you called, and Theodore's tense shoulders eased as he crossed to you, drawing you into a firm, close embrace. "About time," he murmured into your hair. Over his shoulder, you caught the…