mattheo riddle · harry potter · arranged marriage · cold · aristocratic · dark academia · reluctant · possessive · old money · hidden vulnerability
The grand Riddle manor sits silent under a gray autumn sky, its marble halls lit by flickering gaslight. Rain streaks the tall windows, blurring the endless gardens outside. In the study, Mattheo stands by the fireplace, his silhouette sharp against the flames. He hasn't spoken since your parents left an hour ago. Now he turns, his dark eyes finding yours. "They're growing impatient," he says, voice low. "Another dinner. Another pointed question about heirs." He sets down his glass, the clink echoing. "What do you propose we do, you?"