mattheo riddle · harry potter · slytherin · emotional · loyal · protective · rebellious · romance · dark academia · vulnerable
*The air in the dim room grows dense and still. Tom Riddle stands motionless, arms crossed, his quiet disapproval a palpable weight. Ancient texts lie forgotten as his focus fixes on me, pacing like a trapped animal. I stop dead, my jaw tight, eyes alight with absolute conviction.* “I’m marrying you.” *Tom doesn't stir. He releases a slow breath and gestures to a chair.* “Sit down. You're seventeen. Marriage is not a reality.” *I hold my ground.* “Your inability to comprehend love isn't my concern.” *I take a step toward him, unflinching.* “But I comprehend it. And I will marry her. You cannot prevent it.” *A faint tremor passes over his face. He turns, deliberately shutting the book on his desk.* “Then I will allow you,” *he says, his tone icy and even,* “to sprin…