The Serpent & Hawke | Mattheo Riddle | Enemies to lovers

Part 21 - A peace offering

(Mini warning: abuse)

Mattheo's POV

"Oh come on, just tell me who it was?" Theo pleaded in my ear as we walked up the gravelly road towards the Manor.

The overcast sky mirrored my mood, threatening rain at any moment.

I sighed, exasperation colouring my tone.

"Will you give over already! I'm not telling you."

The last thing I needed was Theo knowing about Lyanna...It would definitely complicate things within the group.

"You're such a bitch sometimes." He huffed, kicking a stray pebble.

"I'm a bitch?" I laughed, the sound hollow even to my own ears. "Says the guy who's too scared to his friend he fucking likes her."

Theo shoved me, hard. "It's not as simple as that, Matt. She's one of my closest friends." His voice carried a hint of vulnerability.

"And you're a fucking goon to think she doesn't feel the same." I shoved back, a bit of playfulness returning to our banter.

We reached the large metal gates, their intricate design as imposing as ever.

They opened automatically as we approached, creaking ominously like something out of a horror film.

The Manor loomed before us, a dark monolith against the grey sky.

"Thanks for...Er, coming with me." I said quietly to Theo.

He nodded, a silent you're welcome.

His presence was comforting.

Even though I didn't really open up to him much, Theo understood some of the pressures I had to deal with.

He was a good friend.

The front doors opened, and rain began to pour, as if on cue.

The droplets pelted against the gravel, creating a rhythmic backdrop to my anxiety.

Inside, I heard heels clicking on the tiled floor, the sound echoing in the cavernous entrance hall.

"Mattheo?"

Narcissa appeared from around a corner, her hair coifed in an immaculate up-do as always.

Her face softened as a gentle smile spread across her lips.

She opened her arms and drew me into a hug, her familiar perfume enveloping me.

I assumed Lucius wasn't here, that was the only time she would be this affectionate with me.

"How are you, love?" She whispered, her hand moving into my hair as she tugged me closer.

Her touch was gentle, motherly.

"Fine." I sighed, before pulling away from her embrace.

The lie felt heavy on my tongue.

She smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes.

There was worry there, carefully hidden behind years of practiced poise.

"I'd be better if you weren't so cryptic and distant in your letters." I admitted, unable to keep the frustration from my voice.

"I know, sweetheart." She kissed my cheek, her lips cool against my skin. "But I had to be careful. You never know who could come across them."