Truly Yours (TomxLilith)

11

Third POV:

The opulent chandelier in Professor Slughorn's office cast a warm, golden light over the room, illuminating the faces of the select students invited to one of his famous Slug Club dinners. The table was laden with an array of delicious foods and delicacies, and the air was filled with light-hearted chatter and the clinking of cutlery against fine china.

Lilith sat between Hermione and Blaise, with Tom Riddle seated directly across from her. Harry, a few seats down, was engaged in a quiet conversation with Ginny Weasley. Slughorn himself was at the head of the table, beaming at his gathered proteges.

"Ah, Blaise, you must try the pheasant. It's an old family recipe," Slughorn said jovially, passing the dish to the Slytherin student.

"Thank you, Professor," Blaise replied, taking a generous helping. "I've heard it's the best in the castle."

Hermione smiled, enjoying the lively atmosphere. "This is really nice, Professor. It's great to have a chance to unwind and chat outside of classes."

Slughorn chuckled. "Yes, indeed, Miss Granger. It's important to foster connections and enjoy good company."

The conversation flowed easily, touching on various topics from Quidditch matches to the latest developments in their studies. Harry and Ginny were discussing their recent win against Ravenclaw, while Hermione and Blaise debated the merits of different potion ingredients.

Tom, ever the perfect picture of composure, listened intently but spoke little, his eyes occasionally drifting to Lilith, who seemed entirely at ease in the midst of the lively dinner.

"Speaking of studies," Slughorn said, turning his attention to Tom and Lilith, "I must say, I am most impressed by our two top students here. Tom, your work has always been exemplary, and Lilith, to achieve so much in such a short time... it's truly remarkable."

"Thank you, professor" replied Lilith.

Tom's lips curled into a polite smile, but there was a fleeting moment of envy in his eyes, unnoticed by most, but not by Lilith. Her sharp gaze caught the subtle shift, and she filed it away for later consideration.

'What a teacher's pet.' she thought.

"Yes, Lilith," Hermione chimed in, "it's incredible how quickly you've adapted and excelled here. You must have had excellent schooling before Hogwarts."

"Something like that," Lilith replied. "I've always been good at fitting in."

Slughorn beamed. "Exactly the kind of ambition and talent we love to see in the Slug Club! Tom, you must be proud to have such a remarkable student alongside you."

Tom inclined his head slightly, maintaining his composed exterior. "Indeed, Professor. It's always a pleasure to see fellow students striving for excellence."

There was an underlying tension in his words, barely perceptible, but Lilith felt it keenly. She met his gaze with a calm, almost indifferent expression, as if daring him to reveal more of what lay beneath his polished facade.

Ginny, sensing the undercurrent, smoothly changed the subject. "Speaking of ambition, Hermione, have you decided on your plans after Hogwarts? I imagine the Ministry would be eager to have someone of your talents."

The conversation shifted once more, and the moment passed. But Lilith knew that beneath Tom's impeccable exterior, there were cracks. Cracks she intended to explore further, no matter how long it took.

~~~~

The library was quiet, the only sounds being the faint rustle of pages turning and the occasional scratch of a quill. Lilith sat at a secluded table near the back, her books spread out in front of her as she diligently worked through her Potions essay. The dim light of the library's lamps cast a warm glow over the wooden table, highlighting her focused expression.