Slytherin One Shots

T.M.R

- Tom tutors Cedric in Potions - 

Tom Riddle sat in the quiet corner of the Hogwarts library, surrounded by stacks of books, a scowl etched on his face. He had been assigned the unwanted task of tutoring a Hufflepuff student, something he deemed beneath his intelligence and skills.

 The student in question was a fifth year Hufflepuff named Cedric Diggory, a hardworking and diligent boy with a thirst for knowledge.

As Cedric approached the table, his friendly smile contrasted greatly with Tom's disdainful expression. "Hello, Riddle. Professor Dumbledore said you would be helping me with Potions today. I appreciate your assistance," Cedric said politely, taking a seat across from Tom.

Tom seethed inwardly, struggling to maintain his composure. "Let's just get this over with," he muttered grudgingly, flipping open a rather advanced Potions textbook.

Cedric looked at Tom, puzzled by his attitude. "Is something wrong, Riddle?"

Tom's eyes narrowed. "What could possibly be right about having to waste my precious time teaching a Hufflepuff? Especially one who struggles with Potions."

Cedric's expression turned slightly hurt, but he quickly brushed it off. "I understand your frustrations, but I am determined to improve. That's why I asked for your help."

Tom scoffed, his arrogance on full display. "You think I'm going to be able to teach you anything? I'm leagues above mere Hufflepuffs like you."

Cedric's face reddened with a mixture of annoyance and determination. "I'd like to think that House labels mean nothing. I believe everyone can excel if given the opportunity."

Tom's eyes narrowed dangerously, his voice taking on a darker tone. "Don't presume to challenge me, Diggory. You know nothing of my skills or power."

Cedric leaned forward, undeterred by Tom's intimidating presence. "Maybe you're right. Maybe you're more advanced than me in some areas. But that doesn't change the fact that Professor Dumbledore paired us for a reason. You have a lot to offer, Riddle, whether you admit it or not."

A flicker of uncertainty crossed Tom's face, but he quickly masked it with a cold smile. "Fine, let's get started then. Show me what you're struggling with, Hufflepuff."

Cedric gladly took the opportunity to display his problem and engaged in a productive and focused session. Together, they worked through theories, ingredient combinations, and potion formulas. Slowly, Tom began to witness Cedric's determination and untapped potential, much to his own surprise.

Their sessions continued, begrudgingly at first and then, reluctantly, Tom began to acknowledge Cedric's resilience and commitment. Cedric, on the other hand, found himself appreciating Tom's knowledge and insight, although he struggled with his arrogant nature.

Over time, as the tutoring sessions progressed, a sort of mutual understanding began to develop between them. Their interactions were still filled with occasional snide remarks and stubbornness, but they both saw past the surface-level disdain.

While Tom had initially despised the idea of tutoring a Hufflepuff, he couldn't help but begrudgingly admire Cedric's determination and work ethic. And Cedric, although often frustrated by Tom's condescension, found himself inspired by the depth of Tom's knowledge and abilities.

In the end, despite their differences, both Tom Riddle and Cedric Diggory unknowingly learned valuable lessons from each other. For Tom, it was a humbling experience, a realization that even the seemingly ordinary could possess extraordinary qualities. And for Cedric, it was a reminder that determination and hard work could flourish, even in the face of adversity.