{Cormac's a bitch} [Mattheo Riddle/Reader]

The warm autumn breeze rustled the leaves of the Forbidden Forest as Y/N strolled down the path leading to the Great Hall. The grounds of Hogwarts were bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun, casting long shadows that danced playfully on the cobblestone paths. Hogwarts had always felt like a second home to Y/N, especially now that they were in their sixth year. The vibrant chatter of students, the occasional fluttering of owls delivering evening post, and the distant laughter from the Quidditch pitch made the castle feel alive and welcoming.

Y/N’s thoughts drifted to Mattheo Riddle, the enigmatic Slytherin who had captured their heart. Despite his infamous lineage, Mattheo was nothing like his father. He was fiercely protective, intelligent, and had a sharp wit that never failed to keep Y/N on their toes. Their relationship had blossomed over the past year, much to the surprise of many students who couldn’t see past Mattheo’s last name. But Y/N knew better; they saw the depth of his character and the loyalty that lay beneath his stoic exterior.

As Y/N entered the Great Hall, the familiar smell of roast chicken and pumpkin pasties filled the air. Their eyes immediately sought out Mattheo. He was seated at the Slytherin table, his dark hair falling over his forehead as he leaned over a book, completely absorbed in his reading. A smile tugged at Y/N’s lips as they made their way over to him, weaving through the clusters of students chatting animatedly.

“Hey,” Y/N said, sliding into the seat next to Mattheo, their hand brushing against his arm.

Mattheo looked up, his eyes lighting up briefly at the sight of Y/N. He closed his book, a smirk playing on his lips. “Hey yourself. How was your morning?”

“Uneventful, which is a nice change,” Y/N replied, leaning in to give Mattheo a quick kiss on the cheek. The simple gesture was filled with affection, and Mattheo’s eyes softened for a moment before his usual guarded expression returned.

Their moment was interrupted by a loud, self-assured voice that echoed through the hall. “Well, if it isn’t the lovebirds.”

Y/N turned to see Cormac McLaggen standing behind them, a smug grin plastered on his face. Cormac had always been known for his arrogance and penchant for trouble. He was a Gryffindor, but his behavior often strayed far from the house’s values of bravery and chivalry.

“Cormac,” Y/N greeted coolly, their smile fading. “What do you want?”

Cormac’s grin widened, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Oh, nothing much. Just wanted to say hi. Can’t a guy be friendly?”

Mattheo’s eyes narrowed, suspicion evident in his gaze. “Friendly? Since when are you ever friendly without an ulterior motive, McLaggen?”

Cormac feigned innocence, raising his hands in mock surrender. “Now, now, Riddle. No need to be hostile. I just thought I’d check in on my favorite couple.”

Y/N rolled their eyes, feeling Mattheo’s tension beside them. “We’re fine, thanks. Now if you’ll excuse us—”

Cormac cut them off, leaning in slightly. “Actually, Y/N, I was hoping to talk to you. Alone.”

Mattheo’s hand tightened around Y/N’s, his protective nature flaring up. “Anything you have to say to Y/N, you can say in front of me.”

Cormac’s smile faltered for a moment, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features before he regained his composure. “Very well. I just wanted to remind you, Y/N, that there are other… options out there. Ones that might suit you better.”

Y/N’s eyes flashed with irritation, their patience wearing thin. “Is that so? And who might these ‘better options’ be?”

Cormac’s gaze shifted meaningfully to himself, his smug expression returning. “Well, for one, someone who doesn’t have a notorious father. Someone who’s not constantly under suspicion.”

Mattheo stood up, his jaw clenched in anger, eyes dark with fury. “That’s enough, McLaggen. Y/N knows exactly who I am and doesn’t need your unsolicited advice.”

Cormac’s eyes twinkled with a challenge, his smile growing more pronounced. “We’ll see about that, Riddle. We’ll see.”

As Cormac sauntered away, his laughter echoing in the hall, Y/N squeezed Mattheo’s hand reassuringly. “Don’t let him get to you, Mattheo. He’s just trying to cause trouble.”

Mattheo sighed, his expression softening as he looked at Y/N, concern etched in his features. “I know. I just don’t trust him. He’s up to something.”

Y/N nodded, their resolve strengthening. “We’ll deal with it together. Like we always do.”