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dramaticals · 2 months

Text

Cruel Summer

pairing - theodore nott x fem!reader

summary - on the final night of summer camp, you're thrust into a harrowing fight for survival alongside theo and the other camp counselors

warnings - summer camp au, slasher au, character death, injuries, blood, knives, stabbing, cursing, stalking, fighting, panic attack, ending is super rushed because I don't know how to write a fight scene

wordcount - 10k

18+ Minors DNI

As the sun started to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the summer campgrounds, you found yourself caught up in the flurry of activity. It was the eve of the end-of-summer party, and there was a palpable buzz in the air as counselors rushed to make the final preparations. The kids had all been picked up this evening and for this final night, only the counselors stayed back at camp, waiting to be dismissed by the camp owner the next morning.

Among them was Theo, brooding and observant, a scowl seemingly permanently etched on his face. Mattheo, Theo's ever-loyal sidekick, added to the lively atmosphere with his sarcastic remarks, while Enzo's booming laughter filled the air, punctuating every conversation. Draco and Blaise lounged nearby, the former oozing arrogance while the latter provided a calm counterbalance to the chaos.

Astoria, Daphne and Luna completed the group, their contrasting personalities adding an interesting dynamic to the mix. But it was the dynamic between you and Theo that truly stole the show. From the moment you met, there had been an undeniable tension between you—an unspoken attraction masked by biting remarks and playful insults. It was as if you were both trying to deny the chemistry that crackled between you by being downright mean to each other.

Pansy, your best friend, stood by your side, her cunning smirk mirroring your own. And then there was you, sharp-tongued and quick-witted, unable to resist a chance to push his buttons.

"Nott," you greeted Theo with a smirk, leaning against a nearby tree. "Ready to ruin everyone's fun at the party tonight?

Theo rolled his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest, ignoring the cups he was supposed to be setting out on the table. "Oh joy, it's you," he replied dryly, his voice laced with disdain.

Mattheo snickered from beside him. "Ah, young love. So beautiful," he teased, earning a glare from both you and Theo.

You shot Mattheo a look of pure irritation, deciding not to entertain his remark with a comment of your own, before turning back to Theo, a smirk playing on your lips. "You know, Nott, if brooding were an Olympic sport, you'd win gold every time."

Theo's scowl deepened, but you could see a flicker of amusement in his eyes. "And if being annoying were a job, you'd be filthy rich by now," he shot back, his tone laced with biting sarcasm.

Pansy, always unable to resist adding fuel to the fire, chimed in with a sly grin. "Why don’t you spare us all the headache and finally hook up with each other?”

You and Theo exchanged incredulous looks, both of you recoiling as if the very idea were repulsive. "I'd rather jump into that lake fully clothed than spend another second with her," Theo retorted, his voice dripping with disdain.

You rolled your eyes, folding your arms defiantly. "Believe me, Nott, the feeling's mutual. I'd rather listen to Enzo's terrible jokes on repeat than be anywhere near you."

Enzo, overhearing his name, chimed in with mock offense from where he was getting the fire started in the pit. "Hey, what's wrong with my jokes?”

Draco, lounging nearby and not moving a finger to help with the party preparations, couldn't resist adding his own two cents with a smirk. “I can’t stand another night of this. The sexual tension is suffocating."

You and Theo exchanged disgusted glances. "Please, Malfoy, spare us the melodrama," you retorted, cursing the fact that you felt your face heating up.

Theo nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I'd rather be compared to a garden slug than be associated with her in any way."

Mattheo chuckled, thoroughly entertained by the exchange. "Just get it out of your systems already.”

You scoffed, pushing yourself off the tree to help the girls with setting up the cooler and getting the drinks, rolling your eyes. "I'd rather wrestle a bear."

Theo raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement glinting in his eyes. "Trust me, I'd pay to see that."

As the evening gave way to the night, the party continued on in full swing, the atmosphere of the little clearing at the like you had chosen for tonight shifted into one of excitement and celebration.

You found yourself with Pansy and Astoria by your side, giggling into your cups as you sipped the alcohol Enzo had managed to smuggle into camp. The fire cast a warm glow over the area, creating a magical ambiance for the night ahead.

Theo, surprisingly relaxed, was chatting with Mattheo and Enzo by the bonfire, a rare smile gracing his features. Nearby, Draco and Blaise lounged on blankets, engaged in a lively debate with Luna about god knows what, while Daphne sketched quietly under the soft glow of the lanterns.

Meanwhile, you and the girls had found your own corner of the party, where you danced to the music that filled the air, laughing and twirling beneath the starlit sky. Pansy's cunning smirk never left her face as she teased you about your questionable dance moves, while Astoria added to the playful banter with her witty remarks.

The night seemed to stretch on forever, filled with laughter and camaraderie as you danced, sang, and shared stories with each other. You felt a sense of freedom and joy wash over you, the weight of responsibility lifted for the moment as you lost yourself in enjoying the last night of camp, before going back to the reality of university.

As the night wore on and the party reached its peak, you excused yourself to use the bathroom, navigating the darkened paths of the campgrounds. The air was cool and crisp, a welcome relief from the heat of the campfire.

But just as you stepped out of the girl’s bathroom and back onto the path leading to the lake, a sudden noise shattered the silence, grovel crunching as someone stepped on it, causing you to jump in surprise. Your heart raced as you scanned the darkness, your senses on high alert.

Out of the shadows emerged Theo, his figure illuminated by the soft glow of the light next to the bathroom door. "What? Did I scare you?" he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

You let out a nervous laugh, relieved to see a familiar face. "What the fuck, Nott," you breathed out, trying to mask your lingering fear. Your hand came up to rub the spot over your heart through your shirt, trying to calm your breathing. "Don’t sneak up on me that."

Theo's playful demeanor faded, replaced by a furrowed brow as he stared past you, his gaze fixed on something behind you. "Wait," he muttered, his voice low and urgent. "Do you see that?"

“Haha, really funny,” you grumbled, shooting him a glare.

“Not trying to be funny right now,” he mumbled lowly, eyes squinting in the direction of the woods.

Confused, you followed his line of sight and spotted a shadowy figure lurking near the edge of the trees. Your heart skipped a beat, a surge of adrenaline coursing through your veins. "What is that?" you questioned, your voice low as if the person was close enough to hear you.

At first, Theo seemed unfazed, brushing off your concern with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Probably just Mattheo trying to pull some stupid prank," he muttered, though there was a hint of uncertainty in his voice.

But as the figure stepped closer, the glint of something metallic catching the faint light, along with the realization that the person’s face was covered with a gruesome mask. Theo's demeanor shifted, his eyes widening in alarm, and he took a step back, his arm instinctively reaching out to push you behind him. "That's not funny, Mattheo," he called out, a frantic edge to his voice.

The figure didn't respond, instead picking up its pace and charging toward you, the gleam of a knife now unmistakable in its hand. Panic surged through you, and Theo wasted no time, pushing you back and grabbing your hand in a tight grip as he pulled you along.

"What the fuck!" he shouted, his voice urgent as he sprinted toward the nearest cabin, his feet pounding against the dirt path. You stumbled alongside him, your heart pounding in your chest as fear propelled you forward.

Theo's grip never faltered as he dragged you along, his eyes darting over his shoulder to ensure the figure wasn't gaining on you. Adrenaline fuelled your movements, your lungs burning with exertion as you ran faster.

Finally, you reached the safety of the first cabin in your path, Theo slamming the door shut behind you with a resounding thud. With trembling hands, you hastily helped him push one of the dressers in front of it, your heartbeat thundering in your ears.

For a moment, you both stood there, chests heaving as you struggled to catch your breath. The adrenaline began to ebb away, replaced by a bone-deep exhaustion as the reality of what had just transpired sunk in.

Theo leaned against one of the wooden bunk beds, his breathing ragged as he ran a hand through his disheveled hair. His usually stoic demeanor had cracked, replaced by a vulnerability you'd never seen before. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice softer now, stripped of its usual sarcasm.

You nodded, your voice barely above a whisper. "Who was that?"

“No idea,” Theo's gaze softened, a flicker of something unreadable passing through his eyes. "We need to figure out what's going on," he said, his tone serious as he glanced around the cabin for any signs of danger.

With trembling fingers, Theo reached for a nearby flashlight, most likely forgotten by one of the campers, casting a weak beam of light across the room. The cabin was sparsely furnished, the walls adorned with faded photographs and peeling wallpaper.

"I’m going to call Pansy," you said, your voice barely above a whisper as you reached for your phone, only to be met with the dreaded realization that there was no signal.

Panic clawed at the edges of your mind as you tried in vain to refresh the signal, but the bars remained stubbornly absent. "There's no signal," you muttered, the words heavy with defeat as you sank onto one of the worn mattresses.

Theo's jaw tightened, a frustrated exhale escaping his lip. "Great," he muttered, meeting your gaze with a glare.

You rolled your eyes, resisting the urge to snap back at him. Despite the tension between you, there seemed to be an unspoken understanding that now was not the time for petty squabbles.

"We need to figure out our next move," Theo continued, his tone serious as he glanced around the cabin. "We can't just sit here and wait.”

You nodded in agreement, your mind racing as you weighed your options. "We could try to make a run for it," you suggested, though the idea of venturing out into the darkness sent a shiver down your spine. “I have my keys on me. We can go and get help, maybe find a signal further up the road?”

Theo shook his head, his expression grim. "It's too risky," he said, his voice low. "We don't where this fucker went and the parking lot is on the other side of camp.”

Silence descended upon the cabin as you both grappled with the gravity of your situation. Outside, the night air was thick with an oppressive darkness, the only sound the distant chirping of crickets and the rustle of leaves in the wind.

After what felt like an eternity, Theo spoke again, his voice hesitant as he cautiously peered through the windows to check the space around the cabin. "We should scout the area," he suggested, his gaze meeting yours. "See if we can find any signs of where they might have gone. And then go find the others."

You nodded in agreement, though the prospect of venturing out into the unknown filled you with a sense of dread. With the flashlight in hand, Theo led the way as you followed close behind, helping him push the dresser out of the way again.

You stepped cautiously out of the cabin, the night air enveloping you like a thick blanket, shrouding the campground in an eerie darkness. The distant sounds of the party had faded into the background, replaced by an unsettling silence that hung heavy in the air.

With the weak beam of the flashlight guiding your way, you and Theo navigated the labyrinth of darkened paths that wound through the campgrounds. Each step felt like a leap into the unknown, your senses on high alert for any sign of danger, though there was no sign of the attacker to be seen anywhere.

As you made your way back towards the lake, the familiar sights of the campground took on an ominous quality in the darkness. The rustling of leaves and the whisper of the wind seemed to carry a sense of foreboding - as if warning you to turn back before it was too late.

As you made your way back to the party site, a sense of dread settled over you as you found the clearing deserted, with no sign of your friends. The once lively atmosphere had been replaced by an eerie silence.

Your heart pounded in your chest as you surveyed the scene before you. Lanterns lay scattered on the ground, their soft glow flickering ominously in the darkness. Tables and chairs were overturned, and the remnants of food and drinks littered the ground, giving the impression of a chaotic struggle.

Panic clawed at the edges of your mind as you took in the sight, your distress palpable in the tense set of your shoulders and the rapid rise and fall of your chest. There, right next to the fire, was a puddle of red.

☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ

The sight sent a chill down your spine, a cold hand of fear tightening around your heart. You took a step back, your mind reeling with disbelief and horror.

Theo's grip on the flashlight tightened, his expression grave as he surveyed the scene before you. His usually stoic demeanor cracked, replaced by a sense of urgency and concern. "We need to find them," he said, his voice low and urgent.

You nodded in agreement, your breath coming out labored as your heartrate picked up. "But where could they be?"

Theo's jaw tightened, his gaze sweeping over the deserted clearing as if searching for any clue that could lead you to your missing friends. "We need to search the campgrounds," he said, his tone resolute. "They could be hiding, or worse..."

“We should check the lodge first,” you suggested, trying to push your anxiety to the back of your mind and be useful. Theo's steady presence beside you only offered a sliver of comfort, grounding you. “Seems like the safest place to go.”

Theo nodded in agreement, his expression grim. "Agreed," he replied, his tone serious as he scanned the area for any sign of movement. "That’s probably where they went. And we should get to them before any of them is stupid enough to go out looking for us.”

"Do you think whoever tried to attack us is still out there?" you asked, your voice shaking.

Theo's jaw tightened, his gaze narrowing as he still scanned the darkness beyond the clearing. "I don't know," he admitted. "But we can't afford to take any chances."

Theo and you pressed forward with determined strides, your senses on high alert as you made your way toward the lodge. But as you rounded a bend in the path, your movements faltered, your breath catching in your throat as you stumbled upon the shadowy presence of the masked figure blocking your path.

Panic surged through you both as you found yourselves face to face with danger once again, your hearts pounding in your chests. Instinctively, Theo pulled you back into the cover of the trees, shielding you both from view as you silently communicated your next move.

As the footsteps drew nearer, you shared a fleeting glance with the boy next to you, a silent understanding passing between you, an unspoken vow to protect each other at all costs.

With a shared resolve, you and Theo braced yourselves for the imminent confrontation. The masked figure loomed closer, its heavy footsteps echoing in the stillness of the night. Every fiber of your being screamed at you to run, to flee from the danger that lurked before you, but you stood your ground, ready to face whatever came your way.

As the figure stepped into the dim moonlight, its menacing silhouette became clearer, the glint of the knife held tightly in its hand sending another shiver down your spine. Adrenaline surged through your veins, sharpening your senses as you prepared for the inevitable clash.

Theo's grip on the flashlight tightened, his jaw set in determination as he positioned himself between you and the approaching threat. His eyes narrowed, scanning the figure for any sign of weakness or vulnerability.

"Stay behind me," he whispered, his voice low yet firm as he braced himself for the impending confrontation. His stance was steady, his resolve unwavering as he prepared himself to fight.

With bated breath, you watched as the figure drew ever closer, its masked gaze fixed upon you with an unsettling intensity. Every nerve in your body screamed at you to flee, to seek safety in the darkness, but you remained rooted to the spot, unwilling to abandon the boy willing to put himself between you and the attacker.

As the figure closed in, its intentions clear, Theo raised the flashlight in a defensive gesture, its beam casting a harsh light upon the masked intruder. In that moment, time seemed to slow.

The figure lunged forward, knife flashing, but Theo was ready. With swift reflexes, he dodged the attack, his movements fluid and controlled. In one well-aimed motion, he redirected the assailant's momentum, using their own force against them to create an opening.

But just as Theo was about to land a decisive blow, a sudden commotion nearby caught both of your attention. Another figure emerged from the shadows, shouting something inaudible. The distraction was enough to break the momentum of the confrontation.

Without hesitation, Theo grabbed your hand, pulling you away from the chaotic scene. The two of you ran, your feet pounding against the dirt path as you sprinted through the darkness. Fear fuelled your movements, driving you to put as much distance between yourselves and the assailants as possible.

But the danger was not far behind. They gave chase, their footsteps echoing ominously in the night. Panic surged through you as you as the realization that you were being pursued by not just one, but multiple attackers sank in.

As you ran, the adrenaline-fueled rush of the chase made it difficult to think clearly. Every corner turned, every shadowy figure in the darkness, seemed to hold the potential threat of danger. Your breath came in ragged gasps, your heart pounding in your chest as you pushed yourself to keep going.

Just when you thought you couldn't run any longer, you stumbled upon a storage shed nestled among the trees. Without hesitation, Theo yanked open the door, pulling you inside before carefully and quietly closing the door behind you.

Inside the shed, the air was thick with the smell of must and decay. Your heart hammered in your chest as you pressed yourself against the wall, willing your breath to quieten as you strained to listen for any sign of the attackers outside. Theo’s tall frame crowded you against the wall even further, his hand coming up to cover your mouth and stifle your heavy breathing.

You could barely make out his eyes, your body shaking as you tried to focus on the way he was looking at you, his touch managing to calm you the slightest bit as the footsteps outside drew nearer.

As the tension in the shed mounted, you found yourself hyper-aware of Theo's presence, his closeness both comforting and disconcerting in the cramped space. His hand over your mouth felt oddly intimate, a silent reassurance keeping you grounded.

In the dim light filtering through the cracks in the shed, you could see the determination etched on Theo's face, his eyes fixed on yours with unwavering focus. Despite the danger lurking just beyond, there was a sense of strength in his demeanor that offered you a sliver of hope that you might get out of this alive.

As the footsteps came closer, your breath caught in your throat, every nerve in your body on high alert. In the suffocating darkness of the shed, the only sound was the pounding of your heart, echoing in your ears like a drumbeat of impending doom.

But just as you braced yourself for the inevitable, the footsteps suddenly faltered, fading into the distance until all that remained was the eerie stillness of the night. Relief flooded through you like a tidal wave, leaving you dizzy with gratitude that the danger had passed - for now.

Slowly, Theo removed his hand from your mouth, his touch lingering for a moment longer before he withdrew, his gaze leaving yours and moving to the door. For the first time since the night's harrowing events had begun, you allowed yourself to truly look at him - to see beyond the facade of sarcasm and disdain to the vulnerability hidden beneath. In the soft glow of the shed, his features softened, his guard momentarily lowered as he met your gaze with a mixture of relief and exhaustion.

Without a word, Theo stepped back, giving you space to breathe as he leaned against the opposite wall, his shoulders slumped with weariness. The tension that had gripped the air moments before began to dissipate momentarily as you took a moment to catch your breaths.

"You okay?" Theo's voice broke the silence, his tone soft as he glanced over at you.

You nodded, though the adrenaline still coursed through your veins, leaving you shaky and unsettled. "Yeah, I think so," you replied, your voice barely above a whisper. "That was close."

Theo's lips curved into a weary smile, a hint of amusement glinting in his eyes despite the gravity of the situation. "Tell me about it," he muttered, running a hand through his hair. "I don't know about you, but I could really use a drink right about now."

You chuckled softly, the sound almost lost in the quiet of the shed. "You and me both," you agreed, the tension in your shoulders beginning to ease as the adrenaline began to fade. "But for now, I'll settle for just getting out of here in one piece."

Theo nodded in solemn agreement, his gaze lingering on you for a moment longer before he pushed himself off the wall, his movements slow and deliberate. "Let's get to the lodge," he said, his voice low yet determined as he moved towards the door.

You followed suit. With Theo leading the way, you cautiously opened the door, peering outside to ensure the coast was clear before stepping back into the cool night air.

As you quietly made your way back towards the lodge, the adrenaline-fueled rush of the chase gave way to a strange sense of camaraderie between you and Theo. Silence enveloped you as you walked, broken only by the soft sounds of your footsteps echoing in the darkness. But amidst the quiet, there was a strange sense of intimacy in the shared solitude.

☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ

As you and Theo cautiously made your way through the darkened campgrounds, your senses on high alert for any sign of danger, you had to stifle a surprised cry when you suddenly stumbled upon two familiar figures emerging from the shadows behind one of the cabins. Mattheo and Enzo's presence on the path caught you off guard, and for a moment, all four of you frozen in surprise.

"Oh, thank god. There you are,” Enzo exclaimed, his voice carrying a hint of concern as he approached. Your feet reclaimed their ability to move and you jumped forward, throwing your arms around the taller boy, pulling him close.

Theo stepped forward, his demeanor tense yet guarded as he exchanged a glance with Mattheo. "What are you doing out here in the open?” he questioned, his eyes narrowing as he regarded his two friends warily.

Mattheo flashed a sheepish grin, his usual swagger momentarily replaced by a sense of unease. "We were looking for you," he explained, his tone hesitant. "The others are safe at the lodge. But you two kinda disappeared and we thought something happened to you. I’m guessing you don’t know what’s happening either. Who are these bastards?”

You exchanged a wary glance with Theo, the events of the night still fresh in your mind. "No idea,” you replied. "But we should go. It's not safe out here."

Enzo nodded in agreement, his expression grave. "Agreed. Let's stick together and make our way back," he said, his tone serious as he fell into step beside you and Theo.

Finally reaching the lodge, you found the others huddled inside, barricaded and on high alert. Draco lay unconscious and bleeding on the floor, while Pansy tended to him with a sense of urgency. Blaise was huddled in the corner, trying to calm Luna down as she trembled with fear.

Upon seeing you and Theo return with Mattheo and Enzo, a mixture of relief and anxiety washed over the group. Astoria rushed forward to embrace you, her voice trembling with emotion as she expressed her relief at seeing you both safe.

"What happened out there?" Daphne asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she glanced nervously towards the windows.

Theo's jaw tightened, his expression grim as he recounted the harrowing encounter with the masked assailant. Mattheo and Enzo added their own accounts, their voices laced with a sense of urgency as they emphasized the need for caution.

As the gravity of the situation settled over the group, you all gathered together to figure out a plan of action. Ideas were tossed around, each one more desperate than the last as you grappled with the reality of your situation.

"We need to get help," Blaise stated, his voice tinged with desperation. "There must be a way to contact someone who can help us get out of here."

"Maybe we could try using the radio?" Luna suggested, her voice soft but carrying a sense of hope. "I used it every morning for the announcements, maybe we can use it to send a distress signal."

The suggestion hung in the air for a moment, the group exchanging uncertain glances as they considered the idea. The radio had been a staple of the morning routine at the camp, but whether it could be used to send a signal for help remained uncertain.

"It's worth a shot," Astoria spoke up, her voice tinged with a note of optimism. “I’ll come with you.”

“Me too,” Blaise added, resting his hand on Luna’s thigh as she offered him a tiny smile.

As the group discussed how to use the radio to get a message out there, Theo's gaze shifted towards you, his expression serious as he addressed you directly.

"Hey, you said you have your car keys on you, right?" Theo asked, his voice low yet urgent.

You instinctively reached into your pocket, your fingers wrapping around the familiar shape of the keys. With a nod, you confirmed, "Yeah, I've got them."

A flicker of determination crossed Theo's features as he turned to address the group again, his voice carrying a sense of resolve.

"Alright, here's what we're gonna do," he began, his tone commanding as he outlined his plan. "Blaise, Luna and Tori. You go to the radio shed and send the signal. While you do that, some of us sneak out to the parking lot, grab a car, and get help. I don’t think we can move Draco, so some of us have to stay back here and hide with him."

The suggestion hung in the air for a moment, the group exchanging uncertain glances as they considered the risks. You were the first to speak up again, even though you knew splitting up was probably the one thing you’re not supposed to be doing right now, you couldn’t help but trust Theo. “I’m coming with you.”

Mattheo wrapped one of his arms around your shoulders, nodding in agreement. “Me too.”

“Okay,” Theo breathed out, looking at the others before addressing Pansy. “You, Daphne and Enzo stay here. And I mean stay. Don’t come out looking for us, not matter how long we’re gone, okay?.”

Pansy nodded, her expression serious as she regarded Theo. "Got it. We'll stay put and keep Draco safe," she affirmed, her voice resolute.

Daphne and Enzo exchanged a glance, their expressions mirroring a mixture of worry and determination. "We'll be ready in case anything happens," Daphne assured, her voice steady despite the underlying tension.

With the plan set, the group sprang into action, dividing into two teams to carry out their respective tasks. Theo and Blaise checked the doors and windows of the lodge one more time, making sure they were secured, while you and Luna rifled through the closets and cabinets, trying to find anything proving useful as a weapon.

Finally, Luna, Blaise, and Astoria made their way towards the radio shed, their footsteps echoing in the silence of the night as they disappeared into the darkness, armed only with one of the baseball bats you had found lying around the common room of the building.

Meanwhile, you, Theo, and Mattheo set out towards the parking lot, moving with cautious yet determined strides. Theo was once again in charge of the flashlight, you following close behind him with your keys clutched between your fingers, Mattheo rounding up the group with a tight grip on his own baseball bat.

☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ

You reached the parking lot without any signs of the masked figures, Theo scanning the area for any signs of movement, his gaze narrowing as he assessed the situation. "Alright, let's make this quick," he said, his voice low yet commanding.

You and Mattheo nodded in agreement, your movements swift and purposeful as you searched for your car. Finally, you spotted it parked near the edge of the lot. Not wanting to risk attracting attention by unlocking it remotely, you crept towards it, pushing the key into the lock.

Theo jumped into the passenger seat and Mattheo claimed the back, turning to keep an eye on the lot out of the back window. You turned the ignition, your hope deflating as the car gave no sign of starting.

“Try it again,” Theo grumbled, and you wiped at the sweat collecting at your brows. You tried again, and again, and again. Still, the car stayed silent. “Give me the keys,” Theo growled, grabbing them from your hands and trying himself.

“I know how to start my fucking car, Nott,” you snapped at him, refraining from punching the steering wheel in frustration. “Something’s wrong. Let me check the engine.”

Without waiting for his response, you threw open the door and stepped back out of the car, rushing to open the hood. Using your phone’s flashlight, you tried to find the problem, making a mental note to thank your father for making you help out in his car shop all the time.

The boys had jumped out of the car as well, flanking you on each side as they kept watch while you worked. Finally, you found the problem, tears of frustration filling your eyes. “The fuel line is cut. Someone cut my fucking fuel line.”

“Can you fix it?” Mattheo asked, shuffling on his feet, his anxiety clear on display even though he tried to hide it.

“I could try with some rubber band and a rubber tube or a hose or something. But even then I’m not sure if it would work and we wouldn’t get very far if it did,” you sighed dejectedly, shaking your head weakly.

“Can you hot-wire one of the other cars?” Theo suggested, his face tense with concern.

"Who do you think I am? Do I look like I know how to hot-wire a fucking car?" you spat at him, your nerves getting the better of you. "And what is the chance those fuckers only messed with my car? They couldn't have known we only had the keys for this one on us."

Theo held up his hands in a placating gesture, his expression grim as he regarded you. "Hey, calm down. I'm just trying to figure out our options here," he said, his tone surprisingly gentle despite the tension in the air.

You took a deep breath, trying to rein in your frustration as you considered Theo's words. He was right - panicking wouldn't help the situation.

“We could still just walk?” Mattheo butted in, shrugging as his gaze flitted between you and Theo.

“It would take us like 2 hours to even get to the main road and then we’d need to get lucky to find someone on the road that late willing to stop for us,” you shook your head at him, squeezing his arm to let him know you still appreciated the idea. “And for all we know those bastards are watching us right now, they might follow us."

Theo nodded in agreement, his jaw tight as he considered your words. "She's right," he said, looking at Mattheo, his voice grave. "We can't risk exposing ourselves any further.“

“We should leave a message and get back to the others I think,” you blurted out your next best idea. “Let’s hope Luna managed to contact someone.”

Mattheo’s brows furrowed. “A message?”

“For whoever might have heard Luna’s radio signal,” you explained. “Or Mr. Hargrove. He was coming to dismiss us in the morning, remember? We should let him know about what’s going on so he can call for help before blindly running into danger looking for us.”

“Good thinking,” Theo complimented you gently, reaching over to squeeze your shoulder reassuringly. Something warm fluttered in your stomach at his touch but you shoved the thought of it to the back of your mind, trying to concentrate on the task at hand. “Let's hurry up and do that and then go back to the lodge.”

With a nod of agreement from both boys, you quickly brainstormed the contents of the message. Scribbling down a brief summary of the situation and the camp's location on a torn piece of paper, you left it tucked under the windshield wiper of your car, hoping it would catch the attention of anyone passing by.

As you made your way back to the lodge, a heavy silence settled over the group. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on your shoulders, each step feeling like a precarious dance between danger and safety.

A sudden rustle in the bushes nearby made you all freeze in your tracks. Instinctively, you reached for your makeshift weapons, your heart pounding in your chest as you strained to see through the darkness.

Out of the shadows emerged two menacing figures, their faces obscured by their masks as they moved with predatory grace towards you.

Without a moment's hesitation, Theo grabbed your arm, his voice urgent as he shouted, "Run!"

Adrenaline surged through your veins as you sprinted alongside Theo and Mattheo, your feet pounding against the forest floor as you desperately tried to put distance between yourselves and the masked figures.

But no matter how fast you ran, it seemed as though the attackers were always one step behind, their relentless pursuit driving you deeper into the darkness of the woods.

Suddenly, you stumbled over a protruding root, your body crashing to the ground with a painful thud. Gasping for breath, you struggled to push yourself up, but a sharp pain shot through your leg as you realized you had twisted it in the fall.

Before you could even attempt to push yourself back up, one of the masked assailants loomed over you, brandishing a gleaming blade in their hand. Fear gripped your heart as you braced yourself for the inevitable attack.

With a swift motion, they lunged forward, their blade slicing through the air towards you. Instinctively, you raised your arms to shield yourself, but the sharp sting of pain erupted through your leg as the blade made contact, tearing through your flesh.

Agony washed over you as you collapsed back to the ground, your vision swimming with tears as you fought to stay conscious. Through the haze of pain, you could hear the sounds of struggle nearby, but you were powerless to intervene.

In a desperate bid for survival, you reached for the nearest object within your grasp—a fallen branch—and swung it wildly, hoping to buy yourself enough time to escape.

But before you could land a single blow, a blur of movement streaked past you. It was Theo. His normally composed demeanor replaced by a ferocious determination, he launched himself at the attacker with a primal rage burning in his eyes.

With a swift and precise strike, Theo delivered a powerful blow to the assailant's jaw, causing them to stumble backward with a grunt of pain. Seizing the opportunity, he unleashed a flurry of punches and kicks, driving the attacker back further with each strike.

You watched in awe as Theo fought with a raw intensity, his movements fueled by a fierce protectiveness that left you breathless. Finally, with a well-placed kick, Theo sent the attacker sprawling to the ground. Breathing heavily, he turned to you, his expression softening with concern as he reached out to help you up.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice laced with worry as he supported your weight and helped you to your feet. "We need to keep moving."

You nodded, gratitude swelling in your chest for Theo's unwavering bravery. With his help, you pushed through the pain in your leg and stumbled forward, leaning on him for support as you limped away from the scene of the struggle.

Mattheo quickly moved to your other side, wrapping his arm around your waist to support you as well. Together, the three of you limped hurriedly back towards the safety of the lodge, each step a struggle against the pain shooting through your injured leg.

Theo kept a vigilant eye on your surroundings, his grip on the flashlight tightening as he scanned the darkness for any signs of danger. As you approached the lodge, the tension in the air grew thicker with each passing moment. The sounds of the forest seemed to echo with an ominous warning.

☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, you stumbled through the door of the lodge, Enzo letting you in and barricading it back shut behind you, collapsing onto the nearest chair with a sigh of relief. Pansy rushed forward to help you, her expression filled with concern as she assessed your injuries.

"What happened?" she asked, her voice trembling with worry as she examined your leg.

You recounted the harrowing encounter with the masked attackers, your words punctuated by gasps of pain as you struggled to hold back tears. Theo and Mattheo filled in the details, their voices steady despite the lingering tension in the air.

As Pansy tended to your injuries with Theo close by your side, his grip tight on your hand as he watched your friend work, the rest of the group gathered around where Draco was now resting, pale but conscious again.

The group talked amongst themselves, voices hushed but urgent, as they debated their next course of action. Blaise and Luna explained that they had managed to send a signal using the radio, but they weren't sure if anyone had received it or if help was on the way.

"We might have to wait it out until morning," Luna suggested, her voice tinged with resignation. "It's too risky to go out there again in the dark."

Blaise nodded in agreement, his expression grim. Theo glanced around the room. "We'll take turns keeping watch," he declared, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "We can't afford to let our guard down, not even for a moment. But we also need to rest."

The group murmured their agreement. As the night wore on, the group settled into an uneasy vigil, taking shifts to keep watch over the lodge and its occupants. Each creak of the floorboards and rustle of the wind outside sent shivers down their spines, but they refused to succumb to despair.

As the night wore on, the weight of the recent events began to take its toll on you. Despite the adrenaline that had kept you going, the pain from your injured leg and the lingering fear gnawed at your resolve. You tried to push through it, to focus on the task at hand, but as the time passed and there was nothing to distract you, your anxiety began to bubble to the surface.

You felt the familiar tightness in your chest, your breath coming in short, shallow gasps as panic threatened to overwhelm you. Desperately, you tried to keep it together, not wanting to draw attention to yourself in front of the others. But the harder you fought to control it, the more it seemed to consume you.

With a shaky hand, you rose from your seat, mumbling something about needing to use the restroom. Pansy shot you a concerned look, but you waved her off, plastering a weak smile on your face as you made your way towards the back of the lodge.

Once you were out of sight, you quickened your pace, your heart pounding in your ears as you searched for a place to hide. Finally, you found a small storage room tucked away in a corner, its door slightly ajar. Without hesitation, you slipped inside, closing the door behind you with a shaky breath.

Alone in the darkness, you sank to the floor, your chest heaving as you struggled to calm your racing thoughts. Tears pricked at the corners of your eyes as the full weight of the night's events crashed over you, threatening to drown you in a sea of fear and uncertainty.

But just as you felt yourself slipping further into despair, a soft voice cut through the darkness, pulling you back from the brink.

"Hey."

You looked up to see Theo standing in the doorway, his expression filled with concern as he took in your trembling form.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice gentle as he stepped further into the room, closing the door behind him.

You tried to nod, to reassure him that you were fine, but the words caught in your throat as another wave of panic washed over you.

Theo crouched down beside you, his touch light as he reached out to brush a stray tear from your cheek. "It's okay," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "You're safe now. I won’t let anything else happen to you."

You wanted to believe him, to let his words wash away the fear that threatened to consume you, but it was easier said than done. The events of the night had shaken you to your core, leaving you feeling vulnerable and exposed. His steady gaze met yours, filled with a warmth and understanding that eased some of the tension coiled in your chest.

"I know it's been a rough night," he continued softly, his voice a soothing balm to your frazzled nerves. "But we're all in this together. You don't have to face it alone."

His words struck a chord deep within you, stirring a sense of gratitude and affection for him that you hadn't fully acknowledged before. In the midst of chaos and danger, Theo had remained a steadfast source of support and strength, never wavering in his determination to keep you safe, putting your safety above his own again and again.

As you gazed into his eyes, a rush of emotions threatened to overwhelm you. The fear and uncertainty that had gripped you moments ago began to ebb away, replaced by a growing sense of clarity and resolve.

Without thinking, you reached out, your hand trembling as it cupped Theo's cheek. His breath caught in his throat, surprise flickering in his eyes as he met your touch.

"I...I just..." you began, your voice faltering as you struggled to find the right words to express the tumultuous emotions swirling inside you.

Without thinking, you leaned forward, closing the distance between you and Theo. His breath caught in his throat, surprise flickering in his eyes as he realized your intent. But before he could react, your lips met his in a tender kiss.

Theo's initial surprise melted away into a shared passion as he responded to your kiss with equal fervor. The tension that had been building between you for so long ignited into a blaze of desire, all the emotions you had been trying to push down bubbling to the surface.

His arms encircled you, pulling you closer as the kiss deepened, each touch sending sparks of electricity coursing through your veins. Lost in the heat of the moment, you straddled his lap, drawing him closer until there was no space left between you.

Time seemed to stand still as you explored each other with a hunger born of longing and need. Every touch, every caress, was a silent confession of the feelings you had kept hidden for so long, now laid bare in the raw intensity of the moment.

Finally, as the need for air became too overwhelming to ignore, you reluctantly pulled away, your breath coming in ragged gasps as you gazed into Theo's eyes, your heart pounding in your chest.

For a moment, neither of you spoke, the air thick as you struggled to catch your breath. But then, with a soft smile, Theo reached up to cup your face in his hands, his thumb brushing gently against your cheek.

"I've wanted to do that for so long," he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper as he leaned in to press a tender kiss against your forehead. "But I really thought you hate me.”

A surge of warmth flooded your chest as you realized that your feelings were reciprocated, that the connection you had shared had been more than just a figment of your imagination.

"I don’t," you whispered, your voice barely audible as you leaned into his touch, relishing the feeling of his warmth against your skin. "I've wanted this for so long, too."

You closed your eyes as Theo wrapped both arms tightly around you, his kisses peppering your hair and temple, his embrace so protective, so sweet, that your own arms instinctively tightened in response.

☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ

Upon returning to the main area of the lodge, you quickly took stock of the situation. Draco was now lying down in one of the bedrooms upstairs, Astoria currently by his side keeping watch. Luna and Blaise had vanished into the kitchen a while ago. Enzo and Pansy had made themselves busy arranging all the blankets and pillows they could find around the centre of the room and were now fitfully snoring away.

"I'll go stay with Draco," you announced, turning to the members of the group still wide awake and gesturing towards the staircase. "Let Astoria rest for a while.”

Theo instantly got back up from where he had just sat down next to Mattheo but you shook your head at him, offering him a small smile. “You get some rest too, I’ll just be upstairs.”

He listened, but you could tell he wasn’t happy with staying down here by the way his jaw clenched tightly and his eyes flashed protectively.

Pansy nodded gratefully, her exhaustion evident as she murmured her thanks. "Just be careful, okay?"

You offered her a reassuring smile before making your way towards the staircase. However, as you pushed open the door, your heart skipped a beat at the sight that greeted you.

The room was dimly lit by the moonlight streaming in through the window, casting eerie shadows across the floor. Draco lay asleep on the bed, his breathing steady and peaceful. But Astoria was nowhere to be seen.

A surge of panic shot through you as you scanned the room, frantically searching for any sign of her presence. With a sinking feeling in your gut, you realized that Astoria was not in the room. Fear gnawed at the edges of your mind as you considered the possibilities of what could have happened to her.

Refusing to give in to despair, you resolved to search the other rooms, hoping against hope that you would find her unharmed. With each step, your heart hammered in your chest, the tension mounting with every passing moment.

You checked each room meticulously, your breath catching in your throat with each empty space you encountered. Pushing open the last closed door in the hallway, you froze on the spot. Your eyes had instantly fallen on the shattered window, shards of glass lying scattered around the floor next to Astoria’s body, lying lifeless with blank eyes staring into the darkness.

A scream rose in your throat, but before the sound could escape your lips, a shadow darted out from behind you, swift and silent as they jumped on you, pushing you to your knees. Strong arms wrapped around your throat, cutting off any sound you tried to make as panic seized you in its icy grip.

Your hands flew to your assailant's arms, clawing desperately as you fought for breath. The pressure on your windpipe intensified, a cruel vice squeezing tighter with each passing second. Stars danced at the edges of your vision, your lungs burning for air as darkness threatened to engulf you.

With a surge of adrenaline, you summoned every ounce of strength within you, drawing upon reserves you never knew you had. Your fingers fumbled blindly along the ground, seeking anything, anything that could be used as a weapon to help you break free from the suffocating grip.

And then, your hand closed around a sharp shard of glass, its jagged edges biting into your skin. With as much force as you could muster up, you lashed out, driving the makeshift weapon into your attacker's side.

A guttural cry tore from their lips as they released their hold on you, stumbling backwards in pain and shock. Gasping for precious air, you scrambled to your feet, your heart thundering in your chest as you faced your assailant head-on.

Their eyes burned with a feral intensity, glinting through he slits of their mask. Blood oozed from the wound in their side, staining their clothes crimson as they bared their teeth in a snarl of rage and defiance.

Without hesitation, they lunged towards you once more, their movements swift and calculated. Adrenaline surged through your veins as you dodged their attack, narrowly avoiding their grasp as you danced out of reach.

But they were relentless, their determination unwavering as they pursued you with single-minded focus. With each passing moment, the fight grew more frenzied.

In a moment of desperation, you seized upon the element of surprise, ducking beneath their outstretched arm and delivering a powerful blow to their midsection. They staggered backwards, momentarily off balance, giving you the opportunity you needed.

With a primal roar, you launched yourself at them, driving them towards the shattered window with all your might. Their eyes widened in shock as they realized your intent, but it was too late. With one final shove, you sent them hurtling through the open window, the sharp remnants of glass scratching along their back as their scream echoed into the night and they fell into the darkness below. They hit the ground with a devastating thud, their mask now crooked on their face and their neck at a nauseating angle as their movement seized and they stilled.

Panting heavily, you stumbled back from the window, your body trembling with adrenaline and exertion. The rush of victory was short-lived, however, as the gravity of what had just transpired washed over you. Were they dead? Did you just kill someone?

Just as the panic started washing over you, your eyes fell on the other body in the room. With something else to focus on, you willed the tears in your eyes to disappear and your lungs to take in air again. Dropping by Astoria’s side, you immediately went to check for a pulse, a sob tumbling from your throat at the lack of a heartbeat.

As the reality of Astoria's lifeless form sank in, grief washed over you like a tidal wave, threatening to drown you in its depths. Tears blurred your vision as you reached out to touch her cold skin, willing her to wake up, to tell you that everything was going to be alright.

But there was no response, no sign of life in her still form. With a shaky breath, you pulled yourself away from her side, your heart heavy with sorrow and regret. You had failed to protect her, failed to keep her safe from the horrors that had befallen you all.

But there was no time to dwell on your guilt, no time to mourn the loss of a friend. With a heavy heart, you pushed yourself to your feet, steeling yourself for the task that lay ahead. There were still others in the lodge who needed your help.

Turning away from her, you hurried back towards the staircase, intent on alerting the others to the danger that now lurked within the lodge. But as you reached the top of the stairs, you froze in your tracks, the sound of sobs and commotion drifting up from below.

Fear clenched at your heart as you realized that not just one of the killers had made their way into the lodge. With a sense of dread gnawing at your insides, you raced down the stairs, your mind racing with thoughts of what horrors awaited you below.

As you rushed down the stairs, your heart pounding with fear and determination, Theo met you halfway, his eyes wide with worry as he searched for you. Without a moment's hesitation, you relayed the heartbreaking news of Astoria's demise to him, the weight of the loss heavy in your voice.

Theo's expression hardened with resolve as he took in your words, and without a second thought, the two of you sprang into action, ready to confront the remaining killers that had made it inside. The air crackled with tension as you both braced yourselves.

As you and Theo descended upon the killers, a fierce determination burning in your eyes, a chaotic fight scene unfolded. The lodge's corridors became a battleground, the clash of metal against wod, fists against skin and the cries of combat ringing out through the once-peaceful halls.

Theo fought with a skill and ferocity that surprised even you, his every move calculated and precise as he defended himself and fought back against the attackers. You, too, tapped into a wellspring of strength and courage you never knew you possessed, each strike a testament to your determination to protect yourself and those still alive in the lodge.

In the midst of the chaos, Theo managed to disarm one of the attackers, seizing their weapon and turning it against them. With a swift and decisive blow, he incapacitated them, the sound of their body hitting the floor echoing through the lodge. His face frozen in a grimace as he stood over them, watching the pool of red beneath them growing in size because of his doing.

Your focus was torn from the frey momentarily as you took note of Blaise clutching his side where blood seeped through his fingers, while Mattheo staggered back, a gash across his arm leaving him wincing in pain.

One of the attackers used this moment of distraction, lunging towards you with a gleaming blade. With a gasp of horror, you stumbled backward, your heart racing with fear. But before the fatal blow could land, Luna sprang into action, throwing herself between you and your assailant with fearless determination, baseball bat raised. With a swift movement, she deflected the attacker's strike, the blade flying out of their grasp and to the floor.

Luna unleashed a flurry of blows upon the attacker, her movements swift and merciless. Each strike from her baseball bat landed with precision, sending shockwaves of pain through the assailant's body. With each swing of her weapon, she drove the attacker back, finally landing a final blow to their head as they turned to escape, making them crumble to the floor.

The assailant, now on the defensive, tried desperately to evade Luna's barrage of attacks, but she was relentless, her resolve unshakeable. With a fierce battle cry, she pressed forward, her eyes blazing with determination as she closed in on her target.

With a final, powerful blow, Luna delivered a devastating strike to the attacker's midsection, sending them crashing to the ground with a cry of pain. Disarmed and defeated, they lay sprawled on the floor, their mask askew and their breath coming in ragged gasps.

Breathing heavily, Luna stood over her fallen adversary as they lay sprawled on the floor with their mask askew, her chest heaving with exertion.

Meanwhile, Enzo engaged in a brutal hand-to-hand combat with another assailant, their blows landing with bone-crunching force as they grappled for dominance. With a burst of adrenaline-fueled strength, Enzo delivered a decisive strike, sending his opponent reeling backward with a cry of pain, the back of their head hitting the edge of a table with a thundering crack before they sunk to the floor, all movement gone from their body.

As the chaos subsided, the masked figures all lying lifeless around the room, Theo and Enzo quickly sprang into action, pulling their bodies into another room to clear the main area of the lodge. Meanwhile, you, Luna, and Pansy carefully carried Astoria's body downstairs, where Daphne stood in shock before throwing her arms around her body, refusing to let go of her sister.

Tears streamed down Daphne's face as she clung to Astoria, her grief palpable in the silence of the lodge. Luna, her eyes brimming with compassion, gently placed a hand on Daphne's shoulder, offering her comfort and support in this moment of unimaginable loss.

You and Pansy then instructed Mattheo and Enzo to sit down, helping them clean up and bandage their wounds, while Theo and Blaise went to retrieve the still unconscious Draco from upstairs.

After everything was taken care of, the group sat in stunned silence, some sobbing softly as they grappled with the enormity of what had just transpired.

As the hours dragged on, the darkness outside slowly gave way to the light of dawn, casting a pale glow through the windows of the lodge. As the weight of the night's events settled heavily upon you, you found yourself seeking solace in Theo's arms. With a heaviness in your heart and a weariness in your bones, you nestled into his embrace, seeking comfort and reassurance.

Theo held you close, his arms wrapped protectively around you as you huddled together in a corner of the room. The warmth of his presence enveloped you, offering a small measure of comfort in the face of overwhelming grief.

Silently, you clung to each other, drawing strength from the simple act of being together. Words seemed inadequate in the wake of such tragedy, and so you remained locked in a wordless embrace, finding solace in the shared silence between you.

With each passing moment, the tension in your body began to ease, replaced by a sense of peace that settled over you like a blanket. In Theo's arms, you felt safe and secure, shielded from the horrors. You stayed there, wrapped up in his arms with his lips pressed to the top of your head, until finally, you could see the flashing red and blue lights approaching outside as the first rays of sunlight filtered into the room.

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#my GOD was this so intense #you write so beautifully like the panic was truly FELT in my veins #also loved the little quips and teasings in the beginning #one thing i love is when writers include characters commenting on x reader's dynamic #makes me giggle every time #hp

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dramaticals · 2 months

Text

Love Is Embarrassing - Part Seven

>> the biggest lie I ever said, I just tripped and fell into his bed <<

pairing - theodore nott x fem! reader

summary - when you agree to help Theo out with a bet, you learn that maybe the bad boy isn't actually that bad

warnings - some smut, fluff

wordcount - 3.3k

a/n - I know I said this was going to be the last chapter, but there's going to be another one. soorryyy

18+ Minors DNI

series masterlist - next part

The heat was blasting in the car as you held out your hands into the stream of warm air, trying to loosen up your stiff fingers. Theo had been on time to pick you up, a little early even, but you had still ended up waiting for half an hour before he arrived. Having been too nervous to sit around waiting in your apartment, you had grabbed your suitcase and planted yourself down on the sidewalk.

When you had offered Theo to tag along and come home with you for christmas, you hadn't expected for him to actually say yes. But he explained that his parents were out of the country for work and he would take pretty much anything over joining Emmy at his grandparent's house.

Settling back into your seat, the heat wrapping around you like a cozy blanket, you turned to face him with a grin.

"Hey," you began, glancing past him at the passing scenery. "Just a heads up, my mom can be a little... intense. She tends to smother people and ask a million questions. Dinner might feel like an interrogation tonight."

Theo chuckled softly, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. "That's fine," he said, his voice calm and soothing. "I can handle it."

You raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his response. "Oh, really? You seem pretty confident in that."

Theo's lazy smile widened as he smoothly navigated the car through traffic. "Well," he replied, glancing at you briefly before focusing back on the road, "mothers love me. And trust me, it can't be worse than dinner with my parents."

His nonchalance helped quelch your nerves a little, a warmth replacing the flutters in your chest. You had never brought a boy home before, and you just knew your mother would be crazy about him. Of course, he wasn't exactly your boyfriend, but she didn't care about that. It was still a first for you, meaning it was a first for her too.

"Maybe you should be a little more concerned," you said teasingly, a hint of excitement in your voice as you reached out to hold the hand he wasn't currently using to drive. "She's going to be all over you. My brother probably too."

Theo chuckled again, his hand squeezing yours in return. "I'm not going to be worried unless someone whips out a knife."

As the conversation faded out, you found yourself growing bored, but something else caught your attention—the sight of Theo driving, his face focused and intense as he drove, his mouth set firmly in concentration. A warm feeling settled within you, and you felt yourself unconsciously lean forward.

The warmth started travelling, leaving your stomach and moving downwards, your thighs pressing together involuntarily as your gaze fell on his hands. Theo's hands looked incredibly appealing as they firmly gripped the steering wheel. They were strong and masculine, with just the right amount of roughness, telling a story of a person who wasn't afraid to get their hands dirty. The veins subtly visible under the surface added an alluring touch, his fingers, long and agile, seemed to possess a natural elegance as they effortlessly maneuvered the car through the winding road.

You couldn't help but remember what they felt like intertwined with your own, his body towering over your form, his hips slowly thrusting into you. Slowly, you found yourself leaning over, closing the distance between the two of you, and gently rested your hand on his thigh.

Theo's eyebrows raised in surprise, but he didn't protest. Instead, a hint of a smile played on his lips. He glanced at you briefly, his eyes flashing dangerously. Encouraged by his reaction, you let your hand slide up his thigh, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath your fingertips.

Theo's grip on the wheel tightened slightly, his focus on the road momentarily faltering. He bit his lip, waiting for your next move. You continued your exploration, your touch becoming bolder as you traced circles on his thigh, teasingly moving closer to the sensitive area between his legs.

A deep breath escaped Theo's lips, and he cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. "What do you think you’re doing?" he muttered, his voice husky.

A playful smile tugged at the corners of your mouth as you leaned closer to his ear, your breath sending shivers down his spine. "Eyes on the road," you mumbled against his neck. Theo swallowed hard as your hot breath tickled the nape of his neck and sent a pleasant tingle throughout him, making his head spin.

A low moan tumbled from his lips when your fingers reached the buldge in his pants, gently stroking him through the material. The soft pressure of your touch made Theo shudder, and you could hear the hitch in his breathing as your fingers worked to tease him further. Your touch was featherlight as it brushed over him, causing sparks of electricity to shoot down his spine.

"Trouble..." Theo rasped softly. You hummed, your fingers continuing their path, reaching the zipper to pull it down and slide inside. Your thumb caressed his already leaking tip, earning another groan from him. Grinning against his shoulder, you wrapped your fingers loosely around him before stroking him more firmly.

A low whimper left Theo's lips as he leaned back slightly, letting you continue to play with him. His eyes remained locked on the road as he shifted, the car slowing down. "I need to pull over like right now."

●・○・●・○・●

You pulled up to your childhood home, the familiar sight of twinkling Christmas lights adorning the front porch welcoming you back. The rest of the car ride was filled with easy banter and stolen glances, after your little stop at the side of the road.

The soft hum of the engine faded as he turned off the car, and you exchanged a brief glance with Theo. There was a quiet understanding between you as you both take in the scene before you. But the tranquility is shattered as soon as you step out of the car and into the home.

The scent of something burning wafted through the air, accompanied by the incessant wailing of the smoke alarm. Your mom was rushing around the kitchen as you entered, a panicked expression on her face as she tried to salvage the charred remains of the meal she had been preparing.

"Mom, what happened?" you asked, concern lacing your voice as you hurried to her side.

She looked frazzled, her hair disheveled and a faint streak of soot smudged across her cheek. "I-I don't know, sweetie," she stammered out, gesturing helplessly around the smoke-filled kitchen. "I was just trying to cook dinner, and then I went to check on Danny, and then...this happened."

Theo stepped forward, his expression calm and composed as he assessed the situation. You watched in awe as Theo sprung into action, climbing one of the wooden chairs as his nimble fingers worked on the smoke sensor, quickly quieting the blaring alarm.

You tear your gaze away from him to go and open the window, letting some of the smoke escape. Theo was now jumping back down from the chair, checking to see if the oven was turned off, before turning to face your mother with a charming smile. "Hi there. I'm Theo, it's nice to meet you."

Your mother seemed taken aback by his greeting. Stumbling a little, she took a moment to collect herself before she managed to answer, reaching out to take his outstretched hand. "Nice to finally meet you too," she replied awkwardly, clearly a little embarrassed of the state the two of you had found her in.

Theo released her hand as he stood back up straight, a small grin dancing across his face. You rolled your eyes, deciding not to comment on his unusual politeness as you made your way towards the still smoking dish, ready to start cleaning up. "Mom, why don't you go rest a little before dinner? I think we've got it covered here."

Your mom smiled gratefully at you, seeming relieved to have someone taking charge for once. "Thank you," she said gratefully. "I'll be in the living room then, shout if you need me."

Theo was still hovering behind you, eyes scanning across the pictures and notes strewn over the door of the fridge, his staring being interrupted when you pulled it open. "We might have to settle for pasta," you grumbled, finding the fridge almost empty.

"I love pasta," Theo said lightheartedly, his hands falling to your shoulders, gently pressing into your skin, probably aware of how tense your muscles had gotten since getting here.

You sighed, leaning into his touch, allowing the heat radiating off his body to ease your nerves slightly, though you did notice the way his hands began to wander down your back, his thumbs lightly rubbing small circles, now precariously close to your ass.

"Hey," you laughed, shaking your head lightly and turning to face him, "no funny business."

He hummed in response, resting his forehead against yours. "Why don't you sit down and tell me what to do. Ordering me around usually cheers you up," he suggested. His tone was teasing, making your cheeks flush.

"Oh, shut up," you let out a laugh, punching him lightly in the arm. But you still let him push you over to the table and down onto a chair. "Alright, pots are in the cabinet down there and the noodles should be over there."

You watched as he pulled out one of the pots, filling it with water before setting it on the stove and searching through the other cabinet you had pointed out. You sat, waiting patiently for him to finish cooking as he moved around the kitchen with ease.

"I should feel bad for letting you cook and not helping at my own house, but I have to admit I'm enjoying the view," you quipped as you watched him strain the noodles with practiced ease before going back to stir the sauce.

He stopped his movements, turning around and grinning lazily as he gazed at you. How was it possible for someone to look this attractive while waving around a stirring spoon? With the light coming in from the window behind him, creating golden hues across his sharp features and accentuating his tall figure, you felt weak all over.

"Oh I'm sure you can come up with a way to make it up to me," he teased again, moving toward you with a wide grin on his face. His long strides brought him quickly within inches of where you were sitting and he reached over, placing his hands on either side of you on the table.

"I have a couple ideas," you murmured, a small smile forming on your lips as you raised an eyebrow suggestively. You leaned forward, meeting him halfway, and kissed him softly. Theo wrapped his arms around your waist and lifted you slightly from the chair, deepening the kiss.

His tongue pressed insistently against your bottom lip and you obliged, parting your lips invitingly to allow him access, if only for a moment. Then you pulled back with a smirk, pulling your face back and out of his reach as he tried to follow your movement. "I said no funny business. Get back to work."

"Yes ma'am," he chuckled, releasing you and rushing back to the bubbling pot on the stove.

●・○・●・○・●

As you all sat around the dinner table, your mom thought it was the perfect opportunity to grill Theo with questions. You were just waiting for a sign from him telling you to step in and pull her focus away from him, but he was taking the interrogation like a champ, smiling as he listened to her and answering politely between spoonfuls of pasta.

"It's so nice to have a new face around here, but I have to ask, wouldn't you rather be with your family during the holidays?" she asked, her eyes flitting back and forth between the two of you. You knew what she was getting at, sending her a glare across the table. She had been asking you about your relationship with Theo nonstop since you started mentioning him during phone calls. And informing her that he was coming with you to visit only seemed to spur her on even more.

But no matter how many times she tried to get you to admit you were more, you insisted the two of you were just friends. Really good friends who made out and got naked with each other occasionally, but she didn’t need to know about the second part.

You cleared your throat, glancing over at Theo to gauge his reaction. He simply shrugged before answering, "They are busy. And this one managed to convince me this would be more fun than moping at home by myself."

He winked as he sent you a smile, causing a warmth to spread throughout your chest and you felt yourself relax. You couldn't help but notice his subtle touch under the table, his hand grazing along your thigh discreetly. Your mom didn't seem entirely convinced but she relented, continuing to talk to question him about the courses he was planning on taking next term.

Meanwhile, your little brother Danny was engrossed in his own world, uncharacteristically quiet as he poked his fork around his plate. You stretched out your leg, gently nudging his foot with yours. "Why are you being such a grump?"

Danny frowned as he glared at you with a frown that could melt lead. He glanced warily at Theo, who was still engaged in a casual conversation with your mom, oblivious to your exchange. "Mom won't let me see the Christmas lights."

This put a frown on your face as well. Every year since you could remember, your neighborhood had one street that would go all out for the holidays. Their houses and front yards would be decked out with lights and decorations and people would hand out hot chocolate and candy canes while enjoying the show. It had always been a christmas tradition to go and see it with your family.

Happily taking the chance to pull your mother's attention away from Theo, you caught her gaze. "We're not going to see the lights?"

"Oh, you two are free to go, dear," she told you. "But Danny and I better stay home."

"But I want to go too!" Danny complained with a huff.

"Sweetie, we talked about this," your mom sighed. "You haven't been feeling well lately. And you know I can't carry you around when your legs give out again."

You had known his health has been getting a little worse lately and how much it been stressing her, but she hadn't mentioned it was bad enough that he stopped being able to walk the short distance there and back again.

Before you could start arguing with your mom, however, Theo cut in. "I can carry him."

Everyone turned to look at him with surprised looks. "I mean, only if you guys think it's safe of course."

You tapped his thigh, making him look at you, trying to silently ask if he was being serious. He flashed you a small grin and you gave him a hesitant nod before glancing back over at your mom.

"We can take him with us," you suggested, noticing your brother nod along excitedly. "We promise to be careful."

She still looked hesitant, but with both you and Danny looking at her hopefully, she gave a reluctant sigh. "Are you sure, Theo? He wouldn't be too heavy?"

"It'll be a nice workout," Theo responded with a grin. "Honestly, you'd be doing me a favour because this way I don't have to lie when my coach asks if I did anything over break."

"All right, but if any of you start getting tired, you come straight back home," she finally gave in, offering a thankful smile to your friend.

"Can we go right now?" Danny was bouncing in his seat now, beaming at Theo.

"We'll go as soon as you finish your food," you mentioned towards his still full plate.

●・○・●・○・●

After enjoying the Christmas lights with your brother, it was finally late enough to excuse yourself and head up to bed. You led Theo up to your childhood bedroom closing the door behind you as Theo immediately started snooping around. He glanced around curiously, smirking at the posters scattered across the walls. You cursed internally. Maybe you should have asked your mom to get rid of those.

"I think I still owe you a favor," you tried to distract him, a playful glint in your eye as you noticed him stepping closer to the poster above your bed, a picture of Harry Styles smiling down on him.

Theo turned to face you, a knowing smile playing on his lips. Before he could respond, you closed the distance between you, grabbing hold of the collar of his shirt and bringing him close enough for your lips to meet. As he slid his hands around your waist, holding you tight against him, you could feel his lips move against yours. The way they felt against yours sent shivers down your spine and a familiar feeling fluttered in your stomach.

His fingers tangled themselves into your hair, keeping you closer as his mouth opened wider, deepening the kiss. Your heart pounded wildly as your hands found their way to his neck, lightly scratching his smooth skin as you moaned into his mouth, craving the taste of him.

You pushed against him, making him stumble backwards onto the bed. He let out a low laugh as you climbed onto his lap, leaning down and trailing kisses along his jawline. You moved your hands slowly downwards, pushing up his shirt to rest them gently on his bare chest. Theo's breathing hitched as your teeth grazed along the skin of his neck.

"You're driving me crazy, trouble," he muttered huskily, gripping the hem of your top tightly. Your eyes shot up to find his. His eyes were filled with desire, his pupils blown wide and lust laced through every feature of his handsome face.

He shifted underneath you as your hands traveled lower, allowing you easier access to the buttons of his jeans. You fumbled briefly with them, attempting to find the clasp and undo it without removing your lips from his neck. As you began working the button loose he groaned low, tugging slightly at the waistband of your leggings.

You quickly undid his pants, tossing them aside once you'd successfully removed them, your knees hitting the carpet as you sunk to your knees in front of his sitting form. You ran your fingers along his length teasingly, but his hand came down to stop you.

"Wait, hold on," he rasped out and you glanced up at him in surprise. "I'm sorry, but I can't do this with Harry watching."

You pulled your bottom lip between your teeth as you tried to hide the grin spreading across your face. "What? You're getting shy now?" you teased. He just rolled his eyes, glaring up at the poster. With a sigh you jumped up on the bed, reaching out to grab the poster and ripping it off the wall.

Crumbling up the paper and tossing it aside, you pressed another kiss to his lips before resuming your place on the floor. "Better now?" you asked him with a smirk, resting your head on his thigh as your hand came back up to stroke him lazily.

"Much better," he moaned, hands collecting your hair to pull it away from your face as his hips bucked into your hand. "Now show me how you're gonna make it up to me, mia cara."

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#hehehe this chapter was so cute #hp

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