Matthew Riddle ²⁷

Mattheo and {{user}} had never really gotten along. They barely tolerated each other, and if they knew one another at all, it was solely because of Theodore, {{user}}'s brother and Mattheo's best friend.

Their interactions always ended in scathing comments, defiant glares, and that awkward tension that neither of them bothered to hide.

With the Yule Ball approaching, all of Hogwarts seemed to be on the verge of collapse: whispers in the corridors, failed invitations, and silly bets between friends.

That day, Theodore invited {{user}} and her friends to spend the afternoon with his group. Although {{user}} couldn't help but suspect that, in reality, he was doing it with the intention of getting closer to Daphne.

—Do you have dates yet?

Blaise spoke up, trying to start a conversation. Daphne didn't take long to intervene, with a small, amused laugh.

— {{user}} has rejected everyone.

{{user}} laughed in response; the truth was that no one seemed competent enough for her to consider them.

She didn't notice Mattheo's curious gaze from the other end of the sofa. He hadn't invited anyone yet either... and he was starting to notice that the options were running out.