A shift in fate | Mattheo Riddle

Song: Everybody Wants To Rule The World- Tears For Fears

The walk to Hogsmeade usually took about 10 to 15 minutes, but with our constant chatting and laughter, we were moving at a much more leisurely pace. Well, at least me and the girls were. Draco, on the other hand, was already irritated, muttering about how we were "walking too damn slow."

The path wound down from the castle, past the Black Lake, and through rolling hills before leading us into the village. The weather was absolutely perfect—the sun shone warmly overhead, balanced by a light breeze that made the temperature just right. It felt like the entire school had decided to visit Hogsmeade today, groups of students scattered along the trail, all eager to enjoy their weekend freedom.

While we gossiped and admired the view, the boys were deep in discussion about tomorrow's Quidditch match. Draco was still brooding over Fred and George's earlier taunts, his jaw clenched in annoyance. Everyone had swapped their uniforms for casual clothes, and it was interesting to see their personal styles. I hadn't scripted a set fashion sense for them, but seeing what they chose to wear added something new—like another layer to who they were outside of class.

As we walked behind the boys, my eyes couldn't help but wander to Mattheo. This was the perfect opportunity to take him in without being noticed. He wore a navy blue sweater that looked ridiculously good on him, paired with slightly baggy jeans and black Converse. Simple, yet effortlessly attractive. He looks so damn hot.

The breeze carried his scent back to me—a mix of something dark and intoxicating, like cedarwood and spice, with just a hint of smoke. It was almost unfair how good he smelled. I swallowed, forcing myself to look away before I got too lost in staring. But I realised that a little loo late. Fuck. 

"Enjoying the view, huh, V?" Pansy's voice pulled me from my shameless staring. She smirked knowingly, her tone dripping with amusement. "It really is a gorgeous day," she added, just loud enough for the boys to hear.

Mattheo turned slightly, catching me red-handed with my eyes still locked on him. His smirk widened, dark and teasing. "Haven't seen enough of me yet, V? Even after last night?"

Heat rushed to my face. I shot him a sharp glare, but he just chuckled and turned back around, clearly enjoying my embarrassment.

Sebastian, never one to miss an opportunity for chaos, perked up at Mattheo's words. His smirk practically split his face as he leaned in. "Last night?" He arched a brow. "Did we miss something, Riddle?"

Mattheo didn't respond, but I wasn't about to let this turn into something bigger than it already was. "No," I said quickly, cutting off any chance for him to answer. "He's just joking."

Sebastian looked between us, clearly unconvinced, but he didn't push—this time. Instead, he turned back to his conversation with Theo, but I could tell he was filing that information away for later. I exhaled, relieved that Mattheo hadn't spilled about our fight. That was the last thing I needed right now.

Finally, we arrived at Hogsmeade, the charming little village bustling with students. The cobbled streets were lined with shops and cafés, each one filled with warmth and life. The air smelled of fresh pastries from Honeydukes, and the chatter of students filled the atmosphere. It was everything I had imagined it would be.

My eyes lit up as I spotted a shop to the right, its window display filled with sparkling stones and crystals. I had definitely scripted that into my DR.

"Oh my God, look at that crystal shop!" I gasped, already moving toward it.

Draco groaned, dragging a hand down his face. "Ugh, really? Can't we go somewhere normal?"