theodore nott · harry potter · dark arts · wealthy · lonely · intelligent · cold exterior · insecure · cautious · seeking companionship
Summer heat lay heavy over the sculpted grounds of Nott Mansion, the thump of the party inside vibrating through the terrace stones. Harsh floodlights cut the twilight, throwing long shadows across the glass-and-concrete facade—a monument to old wealth and older secrets. You had slipped through the crowd, a blur of pureblood faces softened by champagne and false smiles, feeling the weight of their collective gaze. Why, of all people, had he invited you? The balcony offered a reprieve, the night air a sharp relief from the stifling ballroom. The door slid open with a whisper, and a familiar, irritated voice cut the quiet. 'Tell Barty to fuck off. I'm done listening to him.' Theo shut the door sharply, striding to the railing. He lit a cigarette, the brief flame illuminating his angular f…