Timeless Charm (Tomione fanfic)

Chapter 24: Leverage

Tom strolled through the Slytherin hallway with an unusual air of confidence, a smile playing on his lips that left his peers perplexed. Rosier, Mulciber, Nott, Robastian, and Archon watched from their seats near the fireplace, exchanging puzzled glances as they observed Tom's demeanor.

"That's peculiar," Avery remarked, breaking the silence. "One would expect him to be hiding away in shame after his deception about his pureblood lineage."

Robastian, his brow furrowed in suspicion, echoed the sentiment. "Indeed. How could he have the audacity to show his face after deceiving us all?"

Archon, seated closest to the flickering flames, clenched his fists, his anger simmering beneath the surface. Tom had somehow managed to break the love spell he had cast on Hermione. It was a spell so potent that even he had struggled to find a cure, resorting to drastic measures in the process. Yet here Tom was, seemingly unaffected by the consequences.

"Are you alright, Archon?" Nott's voice cut through the tension, concern evident in his tone.

Archon forced a tight-lipped smile, masking his seething rage. "I'm fine," he replied, though his thoughts raced with schemes to eliminate Tom Riddle once and for all.

*****

Tom glanced around at the students whose gazes lingered on him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and suspicion. He was well aware of the rumors circulating about his true heritage being revealed, but strangely, he found himself unfazed by their scrutiny. Instead, a genuine smile graced his lips as he walked past them, a warmth spreading through him that he hadn't felt in a long time. It was all because of Hermione.

Today, he was eager to see her, to bask in her presence once more. Perhaps he could even dare to think of her as his wife, given the events of their unexpected union in the tribal ceremony. Hermione remained unaware of the significance of that day, but Tom alone understood the truth behind the dance they had shared.

As he made his way through the hallway, Tom encountered Dumbledore, and without hesitation, he greeted the professor with genuine warmth. "Good morning Professor," Dumbledore, taken aback by the sincerity in Tom's smile, couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope stirring within him. Today, it seemed, there was something different about Tom Riddle.

"Good morning, Tom," Dumbledore replied, returning the greeting with a smile. "You seem quite cheerful today. Is there something special that has brought about this happiness?" he inquired, his eyes twinkling with curiosity.

Tom hesitated for a moment, considering his response. He couldn't very well divulge the true reason for his joy—not yet, at least. Instead, he offered a polite yet vague reply, careful not to reveal too much. "Oh, nothing in particular, Professor," he replied smoothly, his smile still intact. "Just looking forward to the day ahead, I suppose."

Dumbledore regarded him with a knowing look, as if he could see beyond the facade that Tom had carefully constructed. However, he chose not to press the matter further, instead nodding understandingly. "Well, I'm glad to hear that," he said kindly. "Remember, Tom, happiness is often found in the simplest of things."

Dumbledore watched Tom's departure with a thoughtful expression, contemplating the changes he had observed in the young man. "Perhaps Hermione's influence is having an effect after all," he mused to himself before returning to his office.

Upon entering, he was surprised to find Hermione seated by the window, lost in thought. "Ah, Miss Granger, a pleasant surprise," Dumbledore greeted her warmly as he settled into his chair. "It seems that young Tom's demeanor has shifted as of late. Your presence seems to have had quite an impact on him."

Hermione glanced up at Dumbledore, a mixture of uncertainty and curiosity in her eyes. "That's the problem, Professor," she confessed. "I haven't been intentionally giving Tom any therapy sessions, yet he appears to have developed feelings for me."

Dumbledore chuckled softly, a twinkle of amusement dancing in his eyes. "Ah, the mysteries of the heart," he mused, pouring himself a cup of lemon tea. "It seems that young Mr. Riddle may have found himself smitten by your charms, Miss Granger."

Hermione's brows furrowed in confusion. "But is love truly the solution to all problems, Professor?" she asked, her tone tinged with skepticism.

Dumbledore regarded her thoughtfully, taking a sip of his tea before replying. "Love has a way of healing wounds and bringing out the best in people," he explained gently. "Perhaps it's worth considering, Miss Granger, whether extending a bit of compassion and understanding towards Mr. Riddle could lead to positive changes for both of you."

Hermione pondered Dumbledore's words, realizing the potential power of Tom's feelings for her. Perhaps, she thought, Dumbledore was right. Maybe she could use Tom's affection to steer him away from the dark path he was destined to take. It was a risky plan, one filled with deception and uncertainty, but if it meant saving lives and preventing bloodshed, she was willing to consider it.

As if sensing her thoughts, Dumbledore offered his wisdom. "Remember, Miss Granger," he said gently, "love is a powerful force, but it must be wielded with care and integrity. Use Tom's feelings wisely, and remember the importance of honesty and compassion in your actions."

Hermione nodded, taking Dumbledore's words to heart. She knew that navigating the complexities of Tom Riddle's emotions would be no easy task, but she was determined to do whatever it took to change his fate and ensure a brighter future for all.