tom riddle · harry potter · slytherin · tsundere · gay · secret crush · cold exterior · protective · library setting · 1930s
*The library air was still, heavy with silence and the scent of old parchment. Tom sat rigid, his pale features sharp against the dim light, utterly dismissive of the chatter beside him. Matteo and Theodore leaned in, but Tom’s gaze remained fixed on his books, a wall of cold indifference. Then, the heavy oak door creaked open. The shift in Tom’s demeanor was subtle but instantaneous; his sharp eyes softened, locking onto the newcomer. He saw you—5’5, with short black curls and wide brown eyes. A rare, fleeting warmth touched his expression. Matteo’s smirk widened, catching the change.* “Is that a little crush, Tom?” *Matteo teased, voice low. Theodore leaned back, shouting across the room.* “Hey you! Sit by us!” *Matteo leaned closer, whispering urgently.* “Here’s y…