#butt!!!

❝Neglecting my happiness, I never want to sober up.❞

in which, Ace and Deuce know you have a crush on someone, but can't figure out who...

ft. Riddle. Just Riddle this time. Yeah, i’m tweaking too.

You should have anticipated that your newfound tendency toward daydreaming would not escape the notice of your most observant friends. Ace's sharp eyes miss nothing when it comes to potential entertainment, and Deuce's earnest concern for your wellbeing makes him remarkably perceptive to changes in your behavior. Together, they form an investigative duo that would make the Mystery Shop's proprietor proud.

"You're doing it again," Ace announces during lunch, waving his fork in your direction with theatrical accusation. "That weird, distant look where you smile at nothing and forget to eat your sandwich."

Deuce nods sagely, though his expression carries more worry than amusement. "It's been happening for weeks now. Are you feeling alright? Should we take you to the infirmary?"

You hastily redirect your attention to your neglected meal, hoping the warmth in your cheeks might be attributed to the greenhouse's ambient temperature rather than embarrassment. "I'm perfectly fine. Perhaps I've simply been contemplating academic matters more thoroughly than usual."

"Academic matters," Ace repeats with undisguised skepticism. "Right. Because you definitely get that dopey expression when thinking about Professor Trein's history assignments."

The following days bring increasingly creative attempts at investigation. Ace employs his talent for misdirection to steer conversations toward various NRC students, watching your reactions with the intensity of a hawk observing field mice. Deuce, bless his straightforward heart, takes a more direct approach by simply asking if you'd like to discuss whatever has been occupying your thoughts.

"It's someone at school, isn't it?" Deuce ventures one afternoon as you walk toward the library. "You've been different ever since that joint event with the other dorms."

You nearly stumble over your own feet, which only serves to confirm their suspicions. "Whatever gave you that impression?"

"The way you keep checking your appearance in reflective surfaces," Ace supplies helpfully, appearing at your other side with his characteristic grin. "And how you suddenly care about being punctual to everything. Yesterday you showed up to Potions fifteen minutes early just to organize your workspace."

Their detective work intensifies to almost comical proportions. They begin trailing you between classes, taking notes on your interactions with various students, and engaging in hushed conferences that cease abruptly whenever you approach. You find their dedication both endearing and mildly concerning, particularly when Ace starts carrying around a notebook labeled "Operation: Cupid's Target."

The truth reveals itself quite by accident during an afternoon study session in Heartslabyul's library. You're reviewing your notes when Riddle Rosehearts enters, his presence immediately commanding attention despite his relatively quiet demeanor. He approaches your table with characteristic precision, setting down a carefully wrapped package beside your textbooks.

"You mentioned yesterday that you were having difficulty locating a first-edition copy of 'Advanced Magical Theory,'" he states formally, though his ears betray the faintest hint of pink. "I recalled seeing one in my personal collection and thought you might find it useful for your research."

The gesture is so thoughtful, so perfectly considerate, that you cannot suppress the radiant smile that transforms your entire expression. "Riddle, this is incredibly kind of you. I don't know how to thank you properly."

"Your academic success is gratitude enough," he replies, though his own smile softens his usually stern features. "Should you require any clarification regarding the more complex theoretical concepts, I would be pleased to assist with your studies."

The exchange continues for several minutes, filled with the sort of polite, careful conversation that barely conceals deeper feelings. You're so absorbed in Riddle's presence that you entirely forget about your audience until a dramatic gasp echoes through the library.

"THE HOUSEWARDEN?" Ace's voice carries enough shock to violate several library rules simultaneously. "You have a crush on RIDDLE?"

Deuce's expression cycles through surprise, realization, and something approaching panic. "Oh no, what if he overhears? What if there are rules about this? What if—"

"What if you both lower your voices before you get us all in trouble?" you hiss, mortified beyond measure.

Riddle, to his credit, handles the revelation with admirable composure, though his face now matches his hair in chromatic intensity. "I believe," he says carefully, "that we should perhaps continue this conversation elsewhere."

Later, after explanations have been given and feelings tentatively acknowledged, Ace shakes his head in amazement. "I can't believe you fell for Mr. 'Off-With-Your-Head' himself."

Deuce, however, beams with genuine happiness. "Actually, it makes perfect sense. You both care about doing things properly, and he's always looking out for everyone's wellbeing. I think you're perfect for each other."

You find yourself grateful for friends who, despite their occasionally chaotic methods, ultimately want nothing more than your happiness.