𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐒, ᵗᵒᵐ ʳⁱᵈᵈˡᵉ. ✓

022.

___

In the bustling atmosphere of the Hogwarts library, Daphne Greengrass was seated at a long table, surrounded by piles of books and parchment for her latest assignment in Defense Against the Dark Arts. She was engrossed in her work when a soft voice broke her concentration. "Daphne, are you ready to start our project?" It was William Purr, the captain of the Slytherin Quidditch team, his presence a mix of bravado and charm. Daphne smiled politely, though she felt a twinge of disappointment. She had hoped for a chance to work with Tom Riddle, whose intellect and intensity intrigued her. But their professor had paired her with Marcus, a choice that felt all too predictable.

___

As she began to outline their project, Daphne noticed Tom sitting a few tables away, his head buried in a thick volume. Even from this distance, she could sense the energy radiating from him, a quiet intensity that drew her in. But today, he seemed focused, almost detached, as he flipped through the pages. The hours passed as she worked with William, but her mind wandered to Tom. She couldn't shake the feeling that he was watching her, the air charged with an unspoken tension. Then, unexpectedly, she caught his gaze. For a brief moment, their eyes locked, and she felt an electric spark that sent a shiver down her spine. Suddenly, Tom rose from his seat, his movements sharp and purposeful. He strode over to their table, a determined look etched on his face. Daphne's heart raced; she hadn't anticipated this.

___

"Daphne," he said, his voice low but intense, "we need to work together." William frowned, confusion crossing his features. "But we're already partnered, Riddle." Tom's cold gaze shifted to William, a thin veneer of irritation barely masking his emotions. "I don't care. I need Daphne's input for this project, and we won't achieve the best results without her." Daphne's breath caught in her throat. Was he genuinely jealous, or was it merely a matter of academic efficiency? "Tom, we can manage," she started, but he cut her off. "No. This is important." His tone was unyielding, a command rather than a request.

___

Daphne exchanged glances with Marcus, who was visibly annoyed but seemed to recognize the futility of arguing with Tom. "Fine," he grumbled, standing up. "Let's see if you can keep up, Rose." As Marcus walked away, Daphne turned her full attention to Tom, who now occupied the seat opposite her. "You didn't have to do that," she said, her voice laced with both confusion and intrigue. "I did," he replied, leaning closer, his icy demeanor momentarily thawing as he studied her face. "You're more effective with me. We'll get better results." There was an edge to his voice that hinted at more than just academic concern. She felt her heart flutter, caught between the thrill of his attention and the tension in the air. "And what about Marcus?"

___

"Does it matter?" Tom's expression was inscrutable, but there was a hint of something—possessiveness, perhaps? "He's not you." Daphne's cheeks flushed, a mixture of surprise and delight at his words. "I see," she said, her tone teasing. "So you want to work with me because I'm better?" "Because I want to work with you," he replied, his gaze unwavering. There was an intensity in his eyes that made her breathless.

___

As they settled into their work, the dynamic shifted. Tom's coldness melted away, revealing a fierce determination to impress her with his knowledge and skill. Daphne felt invigorated by his energy, their collaboration sparking something new and exciting between them. The library faded into the background as they delved deep into their project, sharing ideas and banter, their chemistry undeniable. And as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow around them, Daphne couldn't help but think that perhaps Tom Riddle wasn't as distant as he seemed—at least not when it came to her.

Word count: 650