YOUTH 》TOM RIDDLE

T H R E E

"Such a stupid holiday," Penelope muttered as she sat next to Tom at the Slytherin table in the Great Hall. Christmas break was upon them, and Penelope was staying at school to avoid her stepfather and to be with Tom.
"Someone's in a mood today," Tom hid a small grin as he glanced at his acquaintance. He did not believe in friends, but it was true that he felt a bond with Penelope.
A week after Penelope told him about her dreams, Tom had caved into his desires. He chased after Penelope, though not in the same manner she chased him.
"I can't wait until I'm 17, I'll finally be free of that bastard," Penelope ignored Tom, too engaged at stabbing the toast she put on her plate. She glared at the torn apart piece of bread as Tom placed a tentative hand on her shoulder.
"Happy Christmas, Penny."
"Happy stupid fucking holiday, Tommy."
"Are you expecting any mail or presents from your parents?" Tom didn't mean to pry, but Penelope always kept her family life in the dark. She had revealed her worst secrets to Tom and yet she would never talk about her family.
Penelope gave a harsh laugh, her expression grim. "You mean my stupid mother and that monster she married? I hope I don't get anything from them."
"Your mother married a beast?" Tom had never had a friend before, let alone someone to really talk to, but he understood how to tease Penelope.
"I don't want to talk about it."
Tom's dark brown eyes widened at Penelope's harsh response. Her body was tense, rigid, and she looked like she was about to begin killing people. His body had a mind of its own, and he gently massaged circles on Penelope's back.
"It's alright, Penny," his breath was cool against her ear, his lip grazing her earlobe ever so slightly. Her head leaned towards his lips, the two of them easily becoming entangled in hormones and their care for each other.