Boundless

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎

I've never appreciated Quidditch as much as I do now. Shortly after realizing that sleeping together might have complicated things between Mattheo and me, he had to rush off to practice.

Once we both finished, there was a mutual inability to talk. The silence between us felt fragile, as if any words spoken could shatter it. Lost in a whirlwind of doubts and regrets, I pushed myself out of bed, determined to carry on as if nothing had happened.

So what if I slept with Mattheo? Isn't that what most girls do? I chalked it up to teenage hormones and rebound tendencies, convincing myself it was a one-time thing, a mere moment of weakness. Or perhaps, sheer madness.

Navigating through the school day was a challenge in itself, but with it being Friday and most students winding down for the week, there was a sense of lightheartedness in the air.

Engaging in frivolous banter with the girls during lessons and participating in impromptu games with the guys helped distract me from thoughts of Mattheo, despite his constant presence in our group.

Thankfully, Mattheo didn't make things awkward. He kept up our usual playful banter and even flashed a grin when our eyes met, showing he could handle the situation maturely. I tried to convince myself I was just as cool about it all, even though I'd considered pretending to be sick to avoid him this morning.

I was actually looking forward to the Slytherin vs. Ravenclaw Quidditch match after school. Ravenclaw was strong this year with a new captain and revamped team, promising a good challenge. And admittedly, seeing Mattheo in his Quidditch uniform was a bonus, though I told everyone I was just there to support our team.

Since my first year, I've proudly worn Draco's letterman jacket to every game. The only exception was when I dated Sebastian; he insisted on drawing Draco's number on my hand instead as a compromise.

As the players emerged, Pansy, Olivia, and I waited by the changing rooms. Daphne and Enzo, already caught up in their usual flirting under the bleachers, actually looked good together despite his immaturity.

We wished the team luck as they headed out. I hugged Draco, leaving a small kiss on his cheek, then caught Mattheo's glare as Draco walked away. His jealousy was almost amusing. "Why so tense, Riddle?" I teased as I approached him.

He snapped, a bit too seriously, "Kissing Draco now, too?" His grip on his broom tightened.

I mocked him, laughing, "Oh, yeah. Can't get enough." But he didn't share the humor, frowning deeply. "It's not funny, Black," he retorted.

"Are you serious?" I pressed, annoyed at his reaction.

"Of course I'm serious," he shot back. I shook my head in disbelief and dismissed the conversation, "Have a good game, Riddle," and went to join the others.

I didn't owe Mattheo anything. I wasn't going to pine over him, nor would I stop being friends with the guys just to ease his jealousy.

In the stands, I sat with Pansy and Olivia behind Daphne and Astoria. Sebastian, who sat in front with Ominis, turned to greet us. Our exchange was awkward, given the circumstances.

But as the game progressed, Sebastian and I reconnected over our shared love for the sport. We chatted and reminisced about the good times, which felt strangely nice.

However, Mattheo's displeased looks didn't escape me, especially as Sebastian critiqued his gameplay. I found myself wanting to defend Mattheo, a ridiculous impulse given our complicated history.

Why was I feeling protective of Mattheo, especially towards my ex?

Slytherin won the match, a victory that felt underserved against the formidable Ravenclaw, but it would surely cheer up Mattheo for tonight's party.

Not that it mattered much to me. After all, Mattheo and I were just a one-time thing, right?