#julesarchive

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character 

Masterlist

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott. He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But in fifth year, everything changes when the two agree to a fake dating arrangement to make certain people jealous. What starts as teasing and stolen glances slowly turns into late-night conversations, lingering touches, and feelings neither of them were supposed to catch. Theodore becomes Jules’ escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. But some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how hard they try to hold on.

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup".

word count: 3k

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

notes: Jules is so “you seem so sad for a girl in love” coded

Juliet woke with a groan, sunlight stabbing through the curtains and right into her eyes. Her head throbbed faintly, but it wasn't just from Firewhisky — it was that weight on her chest, the one that made everything feel heavier than it had any right to.

She rolled onto her back, staring at the ceiling, wishing she could just stay there forever. What the hell was I thinking? Pretend-flirting with Theo? Making a show for cedric? Honestly, even she could hear her own brain tutting at her.

It had seemed clever at the time. Distract herself. Make Cedric jealous. Feel a little bit of control over her own heartbreak. But now...

the memory of Theo's smirk, the teasing, that ridiculous line about the rules being "more for you than me" made her feel worse than ever. And the kiss — bloody hell, that kiss. She swallowed hard, wishing she could shove the memory somewhere deep and lock it away.

She groaned again, burying her face in the pillow. I've made a proper mess of it.

Footsteps echoed in the corridor — students heading down for breakfast, laughing and chattering. Juliet pressed her face harder into the pillow. She didn't want to see Cedric. She didn't want to see Theo. She didn't even want to get out of bed.

I shouldn't have agreed to any of this, she muttered. Merlin, I'm a idiot.

Eventually, with a long, shaky sigh, she swung her legs over the side of the bed. Fingers twisting in the hem of her shirt, she ran a hand through her hair. Classes, breakfast, people staring... she'd have to face them all and pretend last night hadn't happened. Pretend she was fine.

She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to steady her breathing. Alright, Jules . You can do this. Just... survive breakfast.

Pale morning light filtered through the tall Slytherin windows. Her chest still felt tight. Last night kept replaying in her head: the music, the laughter, the clinking bottles... and Cedric with Cho. The image wouldn't leave her. Her stomach twisted.

And then Theo popped into her mind.

She'd left him at the party — right in the middle of their little game — and knowing him, he was probably annoyed somewhere, arms crossed, glaring at the ceiling like she'd personally ruined his night. Juliet groaned, burying her face in her hands again.

Bloody idiot, she muttered. I can't deal with him today. Or Cedric. Or... anything.

She thought back to the party — Theo's grin, his teasing, And she'd bolted, leaving him hanging. She wasn't even sure if Daphne had seen what they'd been doing.

Juliet was too busy trying to get Cedric to see she'd forgotten all about Daphne

Juliet tugged at her shirt, forcing herself to sit up straighter. She'd have to face him eventually. She drew a deep breath, trying to remind herself it was all pretend. It's just for show. Just a game.

A soft knock at the dorm door made her jump.

"Jules? You up?" Astortias voice was gentle, but sharp enough to make her sit up properly.

Juliet managed a weak smile. "Yeah... just getting ready."

Pansy stepped in, giving her a look that was equal parts sharp and concerned. "You look wrecked. Rough night, after you left then?"

"Something like that," Juliet admitted quietly, brushing hair from her face. "Just... didn't sleep properly."

Tori gave her a small, knowing look. "Don't let it eat at you. And... breakfast's soon. You'll have to see everyone... including him."

Juliet flinched at the mention of Cedric, but she nodded. "Yeah. I'll manage."

By the time she was dressed, hair tamed, and a careful mask of calm in place, she felt only slightly more ready to face the day. Still, her stomach churned at the thought of Cedric, and knowing Theo would be watching didn't help one bit.

she drew a shaky breath and muttered under her breath, "Alright, Jules. Just survive breakfast... and maybe later we can head off to Hogsmeade together get some fresh air." Her sister said

" that sounds lovely " Jules smiled feeling less tensed knowing she'd be able to have girl time with her favorite girls

With that, she slung her bag over her shoulder and headed for the common room, bracing herself for whatever chaos awaited

The Slytherin common room was quieter than usual for a morning, the low hum of early risers drifting from sofas . She could hear the clatter of cutlery from the Great Hall below, faint chatter. Her stomach twisted at the thought of facing Cedric, even if it was just a glance across the hall.

By the time she reached the Great Hall, the morning sunlight was streaming through the tall windows, and Cedric's familiar honey brown hair head was already among the students, laughing with Cho. Juliet's chest tightened painfully. She swallowed hard, forcing herself to walk past, keeping her gaze firmly on the floor.

No staring. Pretend it doesn't matter.

She slid into an empty spot at the Gryffindor table — the one that always felt safest next to her best friend Fred — and set her books, hoping her carefully maintained calm would hold under Cedric's eyes.

Juliet slid into the seat next to Fred, grateful for a familiar face. He gave her a small, understanding nod, as if to say I've got you. The Great Hall was buzzing with chatter and the clatter of cutlery, but all she could see — all she could feel — was Cedric and Cho across the room, wrapped up in their own world.

Fred nudged her lightly with his elbow. "You alright, Jules? You look like someone just told you Hogsmeade's closed for the year."

She forced a laugh, poking at her toast. "Something like that," she admitted quietly, not wanting to draw attention.

Fred reached over and gave her hand a quick squeeze. "Jules... listen. You can't control who you like, and you can't control what Cedric does. Even if you're making a bloody fool of yourself, it's okay. That's why I'm here," he said, his voice gentle and reassuring.

Jules let out a small, tired laugh, her chest feeling just a little lighter. " love you, Freddie," she murmured, smiling at him.

He grinned, a flash of warmth in his eyes. "I know, you do idiot. And I love you too. Now, chin up, yeah? Breakfast's not going to eat itself, and neither is your pride."

Juliet rolled her eyes but felt a small, genuine smile tug at her lips. For a moment, the ache of last night — Theo, Cedric, the "plan" — all of it, seemed a little more manageable with Fred there.

Fred noticed the flicker of a smile and grinned. "There it is," he said softly. "Knew I could get one out of you." Juliet laughed under her breath, shaking her head. Maybe things were still a mess — but at least she wasn't facing it alone.

Juliet's laughter lingered as the rest of their friends slid into place around the table — Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny, all halfway through their usual morning chatter. The familiar noise, the easy rhythm of their voices, was grounding in a way she hadn't realized she needed.

Ron was already reaching for his third helping of bacon, Harry was pretending not to notice, and Hermione was rattling off reminders about homework due dates. For a little while, Juliet could almost forget everything — Cedric, the party, the kiss. Almost.

Ginny snorted. "Rough night?"

Juliet sighed, rubbing her temple. "Something like that."

Fred leaned back in his seat, mock-serious. "more like Firewhisky, bad ideas, and even worse blokes."

Juliet threw him a look. "You're not as funny as you think, Freddie."

Hermione shut her planner with a firm snap. "As much as I'd love to hear about everyone's poor life choices, we've got Transfiguration in ten minutes, and McGonagall's not feeling merciful this week."

"Brilliant," Juliet muttered, pushing her plate away.

Fred chuckled, slinging his bag over his shoulder. "Come on, Jules. You can spiral on the way there."

She rolled her eyes but stood up. For a fleeting moment, surrounded by friends and normalcy, she almost felt like herself again — the version of Juliet who wasn't tangled up in heartbreak or games.

Then a familiar voice cut through the chatter behind her.

"Morning, Greengrass," Theo drawled, his tone smooth and lazy. "Sleep well after last night's performance?"

Juliet froze mid-step, her pulse stuttering.

Fred turned his head, frowning slightly. "Performance?"

Theo's smirk deepened, all feigned innocence. "You know, the party. Dancing, drinking, pretending to have fun — she put on quite the show."

Juliet forced a thin smile, trying to sound unbothered. "You're hilarious, Nott. Truly."

"Just saying," he replied with a shrug, eyes glinting. "You have a flair for dramatics."

Fred narrowed his eyes slightly, clearly not catching the subtext but still reading her discomfort. "Alright, that's enough early-morning entertainment," he said, stepping in just enough to draw Juliet toward the door. "Come on, Jules. You’re gonna be late."

She didn't look back as they walked away, but she could feel Theo's gaze on her the whole way out of the hall — sharp, knowing, a silent reminder of the deal between them.

Fred said something about McGonagall and detentions, but it barely registered. Her chest was tight again, the weight pressing harder than before.

So much for surviving breakfast.

*

The corridors outside Transfiguration were crowded with students spilling out of classrooms, the air thick with chatter and the scrape of shoes against stone. Juliet kept her head down as she shoved her books into her bag, already moving toward the door before McGonagall had fully dismissed them.

She just needed air.

“Greengrass.”

Theo’s voice slid through the noise behind her.

Juliet closed her eyes briefly before turning. “What now, Nott?”

Theo leaned lazily against the stone archway outside the classroom, tie loosened slightly, dark hair messier than usual. Like he hadn’t bothered fixing it after the party. His expression was amused, but there was something sharper underneath it today.

“You disappeared last night,” he said. “Bit rude, honestly. One minute you’re dragging me around like your own personal distraction, next minute you’ve vanished.”

Juliet tightened her grip on her bag strap. “I didn’t realize I owed you a goodbye.”

Theo pushed off the wall and stepped closer. “Didn’t realize you were the type to run away.”

“I wasn’t running away.”

“I thought we were past the lying to each other stage, love.”

His voice stayed smooth, teasing. Juliet looked away.

Students brushed past them in the corridor, laughing loudly as they headed toward the staircases, but the noise felt distant now, muffled beneath the pounding in her chest.

Theo studied her face for a moment, his smirk fading slightly.

“You look exhausted,” he said quietly.

“Thanks.”

“I mean it.” His eyes narrowed faintly. “You looked miserable all breakfast too.”

Juliet let out a sharp breath. “Can we not do this right now?”

“Do what?”

“This.” She gestured between them helplessly. “The teasing. The comments. The pretending like any of this is funny.”

Theo tilted his head slightly. “Funny? Greengrass, you looked ready to cry every time Diggory touched Cho.”

The words hit like a slap.

Juliet’s jaw tightened instantly.

“Shut up.”

Theo’s expression flickered — not smug now, just observant. “So I was right.”

“You don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“No?” he asked softly. “Because from where I was standing, you spent half the night staring at him.”

Juliet felt humiliation crawl hot beneath her skin.

“Why do you even care?” she snapped. “The whole thing was your idea anyway.”

Theo gave a quiet laugh, though it lacked its usual bite. “Correction — I actually couldn’t care less. You just made a fool out of me last night.”

“Oh, please.”

“You got what you wanted, I’ll give you that. You made Diggory jealous.”

Juliet’s chest tightened painfully.

“You think this is fun for me?” she said suddenly, voice cracking despite her efforts to stop it. “Watching him with her all the time? Pretending it doesn’t bother me? Merlin, Theo, I already know I’m making a complete idiot of myself.”

The words rushed out before she could stop them.

Silence settled between them.

For the first time since she’d met him, Theo Nott looked completely caught off guard.

Juliet looked away quickly, blinking hard. “Forget it.”

But Theo stepped closer before she could move.

“Greengrass…”

The teasing tone was gone.

Her breath caught slightly.

He was close enough now that she could smell smoke and mint lingering on his robes, close enough that if she looked up properly she’d meet those sharp dark eyes she usually avoided for too long.

“You don’t look stupid,” he said quietly.

Juliet swallowed hard. “Feels like I do.”

Theo stared at her for another second, something unreadable flickering across his face. Then, without thinking, he reached up and adjusted the collar of her robe where it’d folded awkwardly beneath her hair.

The gesture was small.

Careful.

Far too gentle for Theo Nott.

Juliet froze.

And that was exactly the moment another voice drifted down the corridor.

“Cedric, wait—”

Juliet’s stomach dropped.

Cedric appeared at the end of the hall beside Cho, mid-conversation, but the second his eyes landed on them, he stopped walking.

Specifically, he stopped at the sight of Theo standing far too close to Juliet.

At the sight of Theo’s hand still resting lightly against her collar.

For a moment, nobody moved.

Cho glanced between them curiously.

Juliet’s pulse hammered violently against her ribs.

Cedric’s expression stayed composed, but something in his face shifted — subtle enough most people would’ve missed it. His eyes lingered on Theo’s hand for half a second too long before flicking back to Juliet.

Theo noticed.

Juliet could tell immediately by the way his posture changed ever so slightly beside her.

A quiet sort of tension settled into him.

Then, slowly, Theo lowered his hand from her collar, though he didn’t step away.

Instead, his mouth curved into the faintest smirk.

“You missed a button,” he said smoothly, eyes never leaving Cedric.

Juliet nearly forgot how to breathe.

Cedric looked at her for another lingering second before forcing out a small nod. “Greengrass.”

“Nott.”

Theo inclined his head lazily.

Cho smiled politely, entirely unaware of the strange tension thickening the corridor. “See you in Charms?”

Juliet opened her mouth, but Theo answered first.

“She’ll be there.”

Cedric’s jaw tightened almost imperceptibly.

Then he finally looked away, continuing down the corridor with Cho beside him.

Juliet watched him leave, her chest aching all over again.

Beside her, Theo exhaled quietly.

Then, after a beat, he muttered, “You’re exhausting when you’re miserable, you know that?”

Juliet let out a startled laugh despite herself.

Theo glanced down at her, something unreadable softening briefly in his expression before the usual smirk returned.

“There. That’s better.”

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character 

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott.

He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But fifth year changes everything. The teasing turns into lingering stares, late-night conversations, and feelings neither of them are supposed to have.Theodore becomes her escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how much they try to hold on.

notes: hi hi!i’m actually so nervy posting this lol this is basically the first chapter of my book Splintered from Wattpad! I was around 10 chapters in over there before deciding to move it onto Tumblr because honestly I used to be a complete Wattpad demon until I fell in love with Tumblr’s writing community , so this is officially my attempt at moving onto better things <3 I really hope you guys enjoy this story as much as I’ve loved creating it. More chapters will be coming super soon!! I also have an off-campus story in the works 👀 Those stories will definitely be written in second person POV because I fear I’m obsessed with it now. I hope you all grow to adore Jules as much as I do because she genuinely owns a piece of my heart ♡

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup".

word count: 4.8k

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

✦ ──── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ──── ✦

𝐧𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐲’𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐧 ┊❥

nobody’s daughter… ♡

✦ ──── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ──── ✦

“she was his escape from reality, his distraction, his medicine.he was the thing that ruined her — bad for her, but the only thing that made her feel alive.”

they loved each other too much. ♡

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

✧ 𝟓𝐓𝐇 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑 ✧

“𝐓𝐨𝐫𝐢! Oh God, how much I’ve missed you!” a familiar voice shrieked.

Of course it was Pansy Parkinson.

She wrapped her arms around my sister dramatically, nearly knocking her backwards. Pansy and Tori had been inseparable since first year. Honestly, sometimes I thought they shared one brain cell between them.

Pansy’s parents were barely around, so every holiday Astoria invited her to stay with us. Eventually Father just gave her a permanent room in the manor.

I never minded.

Actually… I liked Pansy. She felt like another older sister. Loud, reckless, impossible to ignore — always dragging me out of my shell.

But tagging along with them also meant spending time with their friends.

More specifically:

Theodore Nott.

The bane of my existence.

When we were younger, Theo made tormenting me his life’s purpose. If there was an opportunity to annoy me, embarrass me, or ruin my day, he took it immediately.

Last year was proof enough.

Cedric Diggory had asked me to the Yule Ball.

Everyone knew I fancied Cedric Diggory. Everyone.

After his win against Slytherin, he asked if he could escort me to the ball, and naturally, I said yes. Tori and Pansy nearly screamed the castle down when I told them.

Everyone was excited.

Except Theodore Nott.

Two weeks later, Cedric mysteriously got knocked off his broom during practice.

Broken arm.

Missed the ball.

Missed the matches after that too.

And Theodore looked far too pleased watching him fall.

After that, Cedric and I grew closer. We spent almost every day together until summer break. He promised he’d write to me.

He never did.

I told myself it didn’t matter.

This year would be different.

This year I’d stop hiding behind textbooks and actually live a little.

Or at least… that was the plan.

“Julie! You’ve gotten even prettier!” Pansy gasped dramatically, grabbing my face between her hands.

“My masterpiece,” Tori said proudly beside her.

“Oh my God, your boobs finally came in!”

“PANSY!”

My face burned instantly.

“And your makeup?! Hello? You look gorgeous.”

“Tori helped,” I admitted.

“I think I look kind of hot.”

The second the words left my mouth, I wanted to die.

Pansy grinned. “Hell yeah, you do.”

“You’re acting like I’m twelve,” I muttered.

“You know I’m only—”

“Geez, Pans, we get it. You missed Greengrass.”

My stomach dropped immediately.

That voice.

Slow. Lazy. Amused.

Theodore Nott.

I looked up and instantly regretted it.

He looked different this year.

Older.

Sharper.

His jawline was more defined, dark curls messier than usual, and his voice had deepened in a way that genuinely should’ve been illegal.

Merlin.

I hated that I noticed.

“Oh, shut up, Theo,” Pansy sighed. “We just got here.”

“Just saying,” he shrugged, eyes flickering toward me. “No need to lie to the poor girl.”

I crossed my arms. “How are you already this annoying?”

“You missed me,” he replied easily.

“In your dreams, Nott.”

He laughed softly.

“Oh, come on, Greengrass. You think I’d waste a dream on you?”

Rude.

Insufferable.

I hated him.

“Oh, Jules,” he murmured, smirking. “It never gets old.”

My stomach twisted.

Jules?

Since when did he call me Jules?

“Careful, Theo,” Draco drawled from behind him. “You’re making her blush.”

“Oh, for Merlin’s sake, Malfoy, shut up.”

Theo’s eyes narrowed slightly, amused.

“Disgusted?” he repeated quietly. “You sure about that?”

My heart skipped.

Traitor.

Pansy and Tori were both trying not to laugh while Theo looked entirely too pleased with himself.

I finally rolled my eyes dramatically.

“I’ve already lost enough brain cells talking to you lot. I’m going to find Fred.”

I turned quickly before anyone noticed how flustered I’d become.

But then—

“Yeah,” Theo called after me softly. “Go do that, Jules.”

The way he said my name made my skin prickle.

Warm.

Dangerous.

Like he knew something I didn’t.

I kept walking anyway.

Even if my heartbeat betrayed me the entire way down the corridor.

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character 

Masterlist

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott. He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But in fifth year, everything changes when the two agree to a fake dating arrangement to make certain people jealous. What starts as teasing and stolen glances slowly turns into late-night conversations, lingering touches, and feelings neither of them were supposed to catch. Theodore becomes Jules’ escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. But some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how hard they try to hold on.

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup" & kissing.

word count: 2k

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

notes: This is like the 5th time I’ve tried to post this praying it goes through this time but Finally making a tag list so if you wanted be add comment so I can add you!! Leaving off this chapter here for now please don't hate me lolll im already finishing up the next chapter stay tuned!!

Jules  folded her arms, narrowing her eyes at Theo lounging in his chair like he hadn't just been caught snogging some random Hufflepuff in the middle of the common room.

"I'm not staring, you idiot," she said flatly, even though her cheeks still burned. "But seriously — if you're gonna be snogging a girl mid–common room, don't be surprised when you're interrupted."

Theo gave a lazy grin, like he lived to get under her skin. "You seemed very interested, Greengrass. Could've joined in if you wanted."

"In your dreams, Nott."

He laughed softly, standing and stretching. "So. Have you thought about my offer? Tonight would be perfect to start it, just saying."

Juliet frowned. "You mean your ridiculous suggestion ?"

He shrugged, taking a step closer. "You said it yourself — you can't stand seeing Diggory and Chang together. And I can't stand Daphne parading round with that Prucey git. We might as well make them a little uncomfortable, yeah?"

Juliet huffed, crossing her arms tighter. "I'm not fake-flirting with you, Theo."

"Oh, come on. We'll flirt a bit, have a laugh, give people something to talk about. "

"You're such a tosser."

"Maybe," he said, smirking. "But I'm a tosser with a plan."

She hesitated. Merlin help her, part of her actually wanted to say yes.

"Fine," she said finally, glaring at him. "But we're setting rules. Clear ones."

Theo arched a brow. "Rules?"

"Yes. We don't get attached. No real feelings, no jealous fits, no actual snogging unless it's for show."

Theo smiled, clearly amused by her so-called rules.

"Alright then," he said, crossing his arms. "I'm listening."

Juliet blinked, half expecting him to roll his eyes and drop the whole thing. "I'm serious on the snogging part Nott."

Theo actually laughed, loud and disbelieving. "You're so oblivious."

"Why are you laughing? I'm being serious, you idiot." Her tone was so flat he stopped mid-chuckle.

"You've got to be joking," he said again, staring at her like she'd gone mad. "How are we meant to fake-date if I'm not allowed to kiss you?"

"You can— I don't know — put your arm round me, look at me like you adore me or whatever. Just no kissing. I don't go around snogging anyone for the sake of it." She avoided his eyes, pretending to fuss with a quill on the table.

Theo tilted his head, a smirk tugging at his mouth. "Don't tell me you've only ever kissed Diggory, Greengrass. Merlin's beard, you're more innocent than I thought."

Juliet's eyes snapped up, cheeks flushing. "That's none of your bloody business."

He laughed quietly, clearly enjoying how flustered she'd become. "Relax, princess. I'm only teasing."

"Add that to the list," she muttered. "No calling me princess either."

Theo grinned wider. "You're making an awful lot of rules for someone who's pretending not to care."

"I just don't want you getting the wrong idea."

He leaned back against the wall, eyes glinting. "These rules are starting to sound more for you than me, Greengrass."

Juliet glared at him, but her lips twitched like she was fighting a smile. "Keep talking, Nott, and I'll add no smug gits allowed to the list as well."

"I was only trying to help," he said with mock innocence, hands raised. "Alright then — no kissing, no pet names, no catching feelings. Anything else, Commander?"

She rolled her eyes. "Yes.  no holding hands unless we have to, and absolutely no telling Pansy — she'll make it a whole thing."

Theo nodded thoughtfully. "Right. Got it. So basically, I'm to flirt with you in public, keep my hands to myself, Easy."

"Merlin, you're insufferable," she said, snatching her bag off the chair.

He just smiled, watching her head for the door. "See you tonight, then?"

"Don't be late, Nott," Juliet said, slinging her bag over her shoulder.

Theo's smirk deepened. "I wouldn't miss it for anything, princess. I'll see you later."

He blew her a kiss before strolling off down the corridor, still chuckling to himself.

Juliet rolled her eyes, but she couldn't fight the small, traitorous smile tugging at her lips.

"Bloody idiot," she muttered — though she wasn't quite sure if she meant him or herself.

⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆

Juliet stood in front of the mirror in her dorm, muttering a charm to curl the ends of her hair. Her heart thudded annoyingly fast. It wasn't for Theo, obviously — it was because she knew Cedric and Cho would be there. She had to look good. Effortlessly good.

She rummaged through her wardrobe until she found it — a black fitted body suit that hugged her waist and jeans that flared just slightly at the hem. Paired with her black small heels that she stole from Astorias wardrobe , it looked perfect. She smirked at her reflection. "You're gonna be fine, Jules," she whispered. "You'll flirt with Nott a bit, look unbothered, and show everyone you're over Diggory how hard could that be."

⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆

The Gryffindor common room was already buzzing when she and Pansy arrived. Fairy lights flickered across the ceiling, bottles of Firewhisky lined the tables

"Bloody hell, props to the Weasleys ," Pansy muttered, already eyeing the drinks.

Juliet spotted Theo across the room — sleeves rolled up, grin in place, chatting with Blaise and Draco Malfoy like he owned the place. He caught her eye immediately.

Of course he did.

She looked away quickly, heading for the drinks table, but he was beside her within seconds.

"You clean up nice, Greengrass."

She smirked. "Don't start."

"Not starting. Just appreciating the view."

"Merlin's sake, you're insufferable."

"Funny. You didn't think so when you agreed to flirt with me tonight."

Before she could respond, her breath caught — Cho Chang and Cedric Diggory had just stepped through the portrait hole, fingers intertwined, looking disgustingly perfect together.

Juliet froze. The sound of laughter and chatter around her dulled, fading into a low hum. All she could see was them.

Theo followed her gaze, and for a moment he didn't say anything. His smirk softened into something almost — almost — sympathetic. It was like watching a puppy watch another puppy get adopted.

Without a word, he shifted closer, his hand finding her waist. The warmth of his touch startled her.

"Let's get you a drink, yeah?" he murmured against her ear, low enough that only she could hear.

Juliet blinked, forcing herself to look away from Cedric and Cho. "Yeah," she said quietly, clearing her throat. "Yeah, alright."

Theo guided her toward the drinks table, his hand still resting lightly on her hip — protective, possessive, or maybe just for show. She wasn't sure, but she didn't push him away either.

Theo handed her a cup of Firewhisky, leaning casually against the table. "There we are, Greengrass. Strong enough to burn away your heartbreak."

Juliet rolled her eyes, taking a sip — and instantly coughing. "Merlin's beard, Theo, are you trying to kill me?"

He grinned. "If that's what it takes to make you loosen up, then maybe."

"you're real funny" she muttered, wiping her mouth

"Go on then, smile," Theo teased. "If we're meant to be convincing, you can't look like you're about to hex me."

She gave him a tight-lipped grin. "Better?"

"Not quite. Try again."

Juliet sighed, but when she looked up at him — really looked — he was already watching her, eyes glinting in the low firelight. Something in her chest fluttered annoyingly.

"You're staring," she said, taking another sip.

He smirked. "Maybe I am. Good for the act, isn't it?"

"Sure," she said, voice quieter than she meant.

Across the room, Cedric's laugh carried above the music. Juliet stiffened, catching sight of him with Cho — his hand resting low on her back, the way it used to rest on hers.

Theo noticed immediately. "Right," he said, downing the rest of his drink. "Time to give them a show."

Before she could ask what he meant, Theo slid an arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer. Juliet tensed on instinct, but his voice was smooth when he spoke, loud enough for the people nearby — and for Cedric — to hear.

"Did I tell you you look gorgeous tonight?" he said easily.

Juliet blinked, caught off guard by the sudden shift in tone. "You're laying it on a bit thick, Nott."

"That's the point, isn't it?"

She scoffed but played along, tilting her head up with a smirk. "Well, at least pick your compliments better. You sound like every other bloke at this school."

Theo grinned. "And yet, you're still standing here talking to me. Must be doing something right."

She was about to retort when Fred jumped up on a chair and shouted, "Alright, everyone! You know what time it is—SPIN THE BLOODY BOTTLE!"

A chorus of cheers and groans filled the room. Hermione muttered something about "juvenile nonsense" before being dragged into the circle by Ginny.

Juliet laughed, shaking her head. "You've got to be kidding."

Theo nudged her lightly. "Come on, Greengrass. Perfect opportunity."

They sat across from each other on the carpet, surrounded by students from every house — laughter, music, Fire whisky, and the kind of reckless energy that always came with Hogwarts parties.

Juliet could feel Cedric's eyes on her from across the room, Cho tucked against his arm. Good, she thought. Let him look.

Theo gave the bottle a lazy spin, the glass clinking against the floorboards as it turned — once, twice, then slowing... until it landed right between them.

The circle erupted with cheers. Fred shouted, "Go on, Nott, don't be shy!" while Pansy whistled dramatically.

Juliet groaned under her breath. "Oh, for Merlin's sake."

Theo leaned in, that infuriating grin back on his face. "You sure you don't want to add another rule?"

"Shut up and Kiss me" she muttered, but there was a hint of a smile on her lips.

He leaned in slowly, his usual smugness replaced by something softer — teasing, but charged. When his lips brushed hers, the room fell away for half a second.

Cheers exploded around them — wolf whistles, laughter, Goerge shouting, "Bloody hell, that's how you do it!"

Juliet pulled back quickly, face flushed. "Well. That's one for the list," she muttered, reaching for her drink.

He grinned, leaning closer so only she could hear. "You know, Greengrass... I think you like breaking your own rules."

She rolled her eyes, trying not to smile — and failing.

Laughter bubbled up around them again, the game spinning on to its next victim, but Juliet barely heard it. She could still feel the ghost of his mouth on hers — still taste the Firewhisky and mint.

She looked up for one reckless moment — straight across the circle.

Cedric was watching.

His arm was still around Cho, but his expression had faltered, a flicker of something — surprise? irritation? — crossing his face before he quickly looked away.

Juliet's chest tightened, and for the first time all night, the ache didn't sting quite as much.

Theo leaned closer, voice low. "Told you this would be fun."

She shot him a sidelong glare. "You're insufferable."

"Maybe," he said, the corner of his mouth twitching, "but you didn't hate it."

Theo didn't press it. He just sat there, watching her with that same infuriating half-smile — like he knew exactly what she was thinking.

Jules watched as the rest to her friends kissed one another as she kept drinking fire whiskey

Juliet's chest felt tight as she watched the bottle spin, the laughter and cheers around her fading into a dull hum. She tried to focus on something — anything — else, but Cedric and Cho were right there, sitting close, their hands brushing.

And then...

Cedric leaned in.

His lips met Cho's in a slow, casual kiss, the kind that made it look effortless, perfect, as if the whole world belonged to them. The sight stole the air from her lungs. Juliet's stomach lurched, a twist of envy and heartbreak that left her frozen in place.

She couldn't watch. She couldn't stand to see it, not after everything — not after what she thought she had with him, however fleeting it had been.

"Back in a sec," she muttered to Pansy, voice tight, a lump forming in her throat. Pansy's eyes flicked to hers, sharp and understanding, but she didn't ask questions. She knew better than to try.

Juliet pushed through the throng of students, ignoring Theo's teasing grin as he leaned close. "Everything alright, Greengrass?"

She shook her head, barely whispering, "I... I need air."

Every step toward the staircase felt heavy, her heart pounding as though it would burst. The noise of the party — the music, the laughter, the clinking of bottles — became unbearable, each sound a cruel reminder of what she couldn't have.

The stairs seemed endless. Her heels clicked against the stone, each step a small punctuation in the storm of emotions roiling inside her. By the time she reached the girls' dormitory, her chest ached, her throat raw from the words she hadn't said, and her hands trembled slightly as she shut the door behind her.

She sank onto her bed, curling up under the covers, wrapping herself in the one thing that felt safe — the quiet. Her mind kept replaying the image of Cedric and Cho, the careless ease of his kiss, the warmth of his hand on hers now just a memory.

Jules. Hey, are you  alright in there?" Fred's voice interrupted her thoughts he was concerned, and his brow furrowed as he caught sight of the flush in her cheeks and the tension in her shoulders.

Juliet froze, caught off guard. She opened her mouth to brush him off, to say she was fine, but the words felt empty. Instead, she shook her head slightly. "I... I just need a minute, Fred."

He didn't let go. "Come on, love. You stormed off like you had seen your boggart or something. open the door Talk to me. What's wrong?"

She swallowed hard, blinked back the sting in her eyes, and forced a tight-lipped smile. "It's nothing. Really. Just... too much noise, that's all."

Fred's expression softened, though he didn't let her lie go unchallenged. "Too much noise, yeah? Or something else? You don't have to tell me if you don't want, but... you're my best friend Jules. I can tell when you're not fine."

Juliet hesitated, looking down at her hands. She wanted to explain — the ache in her chest, the sight of Cedric kissing Cho, the knot of jealousy and heartbreak twisting her stomach — but she couldn't. Not here, not with everyone around.

"I... I'll be fine," she whispered at last, voice small. "I just... need some sleep, alright?"

Fred gave her a small, knowing nod. "Alright. But if you need me... you find me. Don't just vanish on me, yeah?"

She smiled at the fact her red haired friend was ditching his own part to make sure she was okay  grateful for his concern, and finally she opened up the door, and without saying anything she simply hugged the boy in front of her.

No words needed to be said. Fred knew that, he hugged her back immediately. "get some rest june bug i'll see you tomorrow"

Once inside her dorm, she kicked off her slippers and collapsed onto her bed, curling up under the covers. once again Her mind replayed Cedric's kiss with Cho over and over, the sting sharper than she expected.

Tears pricked at her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. She hated that she cared this much. She hated that it hurt this much.

Her fingers gripped the sheets as if she could hold herself together by force alone. Sleep came slowly, each blink heavy with exhaustion and a gnawing ache in her chest. But when it finally claimed her, Juliet let herself go completely, if only for a few hours, letting the heartbreak recede into the quiet of her room. fingers gripped the sheets as if she could hold herself together by force alone. Sleep came slowly, each blink heavy with exhaustion and a gnawing ache in her chest. But when it finally claimed her, Juliet let herself go completely, if only for a few hours, letting the heartbreak recede into the quiet of her room.

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character X Cedric Diggory

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott. He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But in fifth year, everything changes when the two agree to a fake dating arrangement to make certain people jealous. What starts as teasing and stolen glances slowly turns into late-night conversations, lingering touches, and feelings neither of them were supposed to catch. Theodore becomes Jules’ escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. But some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how hard they try to hold on.

Masterlist

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup" & kissing.

word count: 5k

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

notes: this chapter hold a veryyyyyy dear place in my heart & I hope you guys get to adore just as much as I do! Wanted to give yall a background of Jules & Cedric!

December 25th 1994 Last Christmas

Snow flakes danced in the pale morning light. Juliet watched them melt against the glass of the train compartment, her heart fluttering in that helpless, stupid way it always did whenever she thought of him. Cedric had asked her—actually asked her—to spend part of Christmas with him and his family.

She'd tried to play it cool, of course.

"Oh, right, yes, sounds nice, I suppose."

Now, remembering it, she cringed, she'd practically combusted.

By the time the train pulled into Ottery St. Catchpole, her stomach was a knot of nerves and excitement. She stepped onto the snowy platform, clutching her bag, breath puffing into the cold air.

Then she saw him.

Cedric was leaning against a wooden post, scarf loosely wrapped around his neck, hair dusted with snowflakes. He straightened at the sight of her, a smile spreading across his face like sunrise.

"Hey, pretty girl," he said, waving with that easy, warm gesture that never failed to undo her.

Her heart did that ridiculous flip it always did. She walked toward him, and he pulled her into a tight, warm hug that made the winter air feel insignificant.

"You alright?" he murmured against her hair. "Journey not too miserable, I hope?"

Juliet laughed softly. "Only nearly froze to death, thanks for asking." She admired the rosy flush on his cheeks—he always went pink in the winter.

Cedric brushed a loose curl from her face. "Should've told me. I'd have brought a blanket."

"You're ridiculous."

"And you're freezing," he countered with a grin. "Come on. Mum's been buzzing since dawn."

He lifted her bag before she could protest, swinging it over his shoulder as if it weighed nothing.

"You do know I'm perfectly capable of carrying my own bag, right?"

"Of course," he said, smirking. "But you won't, because you have me."

"Ced—" she began.

"Just let me be polite and carry my girl's bag," he cut in. "And I like helping you, so don't argue."

Her cheeks warmed, but she let him have this one. Cedric opened the passenger door of the old blue car parked nearby and waited until she was inside before shutting it behind her.

The car heater hissed to life, filling the space with warm, cozy air faintly scented of peppermint. Cedric slid into the driver's seat and shot her a grin before starting the engine.

"Mum insisted I pick you up myself," he said as they pulled away. "She said it'd be 'rude' to let a guest Floo when the roads are perfectly clear."

Juliet smirked. "She doesn't trust you not to crash, does she?"

Cedric glanced over, mock offended. "I'll have you know, Jules, I'm a brilliant driver."

"You nearly went into a hedge last time."

"That was one time—"

"And the lamppost."

"That lamppost came out of nowhere."

"And the—"

He cut her off with a look. "Carry on, and I'm turning around and sending you home on the next train."

She laughed properly, and Cedric's whole face softened. He loved that sound; she knew he did—it always made him look like he'd won something when he heard it.

The drive through Ottery St. Catchpole was quiet and peaceful: cottages with smoking chimneys, snowy hedgerows, and faint glimmers of Christmas lights in every window. Juliet let her head fall lightly against the cold window, eyes fluttering shut.

"Tired?" Cedric asked gently.

"Mm. Just thinking."

"About what?"

"You," she murmured before she could stop herself.

Cedric blinked, taken aback, then smiled that slow, warm smile he only reserved for her. "Good. Because I've been thinking about you for weeks."

Her stomach flipped. "Cedric..."

He drummed his fingers against the steering wheel, suddenly bashful. "Look, you don't have to say anything. I just... wanted you here. For Christmas. It felt right."

Juliet's throat tightened. He said things like that so easily, like honesty came naturally to him. Like he didn't know how dangerous it was for someone like her to fall for someone like him.

She looked out at the falling snow, voice barely above a whisper. "It feels right to me too."

Cedric turned onto a narrow lane lined with frosted bushes, stopping in front of a warm-looking stone cottage glowing with golden light. Smoke curled from the chimney, and a pine wreath hung on the door.

As soon as they stepped up the path, the front door swung open.

"Juliet!" Claire Diggory rushed forward, apron dusted with flour. "There you are! I was about to send Amos after you. Thought you'd driven into a lake."

Cedric groaned. "Really, Mum?"

Claire kissed Juliet's cheek warmly. "Darling, come in — you must be freezing ."

"Only a bit," Juliet laughed.

Amos appeared behind Claire, booming, "Merry Christmas, Juliet! Ignore him — he did drive into a ditch three years ago."

"Once!" Cedric cried in despair.

And just like that, the Diggory house wrapped Juliet in warmth. Fairy lights twinkled along the bannister, a giant Christmas tree stood proudly in the sitting room, and the smell of cinnamon and something delicious wafted from the kitchen.

Claire clapped her hands. "Cedric, show her to the guest room — and don't keep her too long. Dinner's nearly done."

Cedric took Juliet's bag upstairs, calling over his shoulder, "Mum, she's not a tourist! She knows where things are!"

Claire ignored him. "Juliet, dear, make sure he hasn't left a Quidditch kit on the bed again."

Juliet snorted. "Wouldn't surprise me."

Cedric's voice echoed back, "It was one time!"

Juliet followed him up the stairs, smiling despite herself.

Cedric pushed open a familiar door—his room, warm and neat as always, smelling faintly of cedar and peppermint.

He set her bag down and turned to her, hands in his pockets, looking a little shy.

"Jules?"

She hummed in response.

His voice softened. "I really am glad you're here."

Juliet stepped closer, tilting her head up to meet his gaze. "Me too."

He let out a small breath, cupping her cheek, thumb brushing lightly along her skin. The warmth of his hand against the winter chill made her eyes flutter shut.

"Can I...?" he whispered.

She nodded.

Cedric kissed her—gentle at first, then deeper, warmer, pulling her closer as snow fell softly outside his window. Slow, sweet, perfect.

When they pulled apart, Juliet's heart was thudding wildly.

Cedric rested his forehead against hers. "Merry Christmas, pretty girl."

Juliet's lips curved into a smile she couldn't stop. "Merry Christmas, Ced."

Claire's voice floated up the stairs.

"Dinner, you two! And Cedric, if you're making her late, I swear—"

Cedric groaned. "She thinks I'm trapping you in my room."

Juliet shrugged, teasing. "Maybe you are."

His ears went pink. "Come on, before she comes up here with a wooden spoon."

They headed downstairs, warm light spilling into the hallway. The table was already set: golden candles flickering, steaming dishes laid out like a feast—beef pie, roasted potatoes, honey-glazed parsnips, thick gravy. Proper Christmas comfort.

Claire beamed. "Sit, sit! Ced, don't hover like you haven't eaten in a year."

Juliet took the seat beside Cedric, who nudged her knee gently—a silent you alright? She nudged back, a quiet yes, I'm fine.

Amos lifted his glass. "To Christmas," he said warmly, "and to having Juliet with us this year."

Juliet flushed. "Thank you. It's lovely, truly."

"Oh, nonsense," Claire said, waving a hand. "We're thrilled. Cedric hasn't shut up about you all term."

"Mum—!"

Juliet choked on a laugh. Cedric buried his head in his hands, mortified.

Amos grinned. "He even cleaned his room for you."

"I always clean my room," Cedric muttered.

"You do not," Claire said. "The last time I went in there, I found a sock fused to the underside of your bed."

Juliet laughed—bright, uncontained—and Cedric shot her an incredulous look.

"You're supposed to be on my side."

"Sorry," she said, still smiling. "But a fused sock, Ced? Really?"

"It wasn't fused—! It was—! Dad, tell them it wasn't—"

Amos shrugged. "Looked fused to me, son."

Cedric looked personally injured, and Juliet squeezed his hand under the table to comfort him, still giggling.

Dinner settled into a comfortable rhythm. Plates passed, candles flickered, warmth radiated through the room.

"So, Juliet," Amos said, slicing into his pie, "has Cedric shown you the broom shed yet?"

Juliet raised an eyebrow. "The shed full of half-broken brooms? Yes."

"That shed birthed a young prodigy," Amos proclaimed. "Cedric was flying before he could walk."

"I was not," Cedric said quickly.

"You were," Claire confirmed. "You got hold of one of Amos's practice brooms and it lifted you halfway up the orchard."

Juliet's eyes widened. "What, at three?"

"Two," Claire corrected.

Cedric groaned, covering his face. "Mum, please—"

"You were shrieking with joy," she continued fondly. "I was shrieking with terror. Amos was chasing the broom with a rake."

Juliet laughed so hard her stomach hurt. "A rake?"

"It was the nearest thing I could grab!" Amos said defensively. "Didn't think I'd be fathering a human Bludger."

Cedric nudged Juliet's arm. "Don't listen to them. They exaggerate everything."

"Oh, sweetheart, we really don't," Claire said sweetly.

Juliet leaned her shoulder into Cedric's. "This is brilliant. Please continue."

Cedric whispered in her ear, mock warning in his voice, "You're going to pay for this, pretty girl."

His hand slid over to rest on her knee—just close enough to make her breath catch.

She shot him a look meant to be stern and utterly failed. "Behave," she mouthed.

"I am behaving. Barely."

Juliet nudged him, grinning.

Claire continued obliviously, "Remember the Christmas he tried to enchant his sled, Amos?"

Cedric groaned. "MUM."

Amos chuckled. "Shot straight into the neighbour's goose pen. Nearly caused an international incident."

Juliet covered her mouth, laughing again. Cedric slumped dramatically in his chair.

"Why did I invite you again?" he muttered.

Juliet leaned closer. "For entertainment, clearly."

His eyes were warm, glowing, and Juliet felt that familiar tug in her chest—the one that had terrified her for so long. She'd finally stopped running from it.

Claire began clearing plates. "Juliet, darling, could you help me in the kitchen? Cedric will only drop things."

"Mum," Cedric protested.

Juliet rose, squeezing his shoulder. "Don't worry. I'll tell her all about that lamppost."

Cedric stared, scandalized. "Jules!"

Juliet laughed and followed Claire into the cozy kitchen, grabbing a few more dishes to go back to the dining room while Cedric and Amos enjoyed their first round of food.

"So, Juliet dear," Claire said gently, "tell us about your family. We've heard bits from Cedric, but only bits." While they both sat back down

Juliet's smile softened. "Er... well… Astoria my older sister—you've probably heard of her."

"Very talented girl," Claire said kindly. "Top marks."

Juliet nodded. "Yes, she's brilliant. Always has been."

"And your parents?" Amos asked, curious but gentle.

Juliet hesitated.

"They're... good people," she said finally. "Just... strict. They expect a lot."

Claire nodded. "Families can be a lot of things. Good, but difficult sometimes."

Juliet exhaled slowly. "Exactly that."

She smiled, embarrassed.

Claire reached over, patting Juliet's hand. "Well, you're safe from rules tonight, darling. You're family here."

Something in Juliet's chest softened, achey and warm.

"Thank you," she murmured. "Really. Thank you."

Cedric's hand tightened around hers beneath the table—quiet, steady, proud.

When the last plates were cleared and Amos levitated leftovers into enchanted containers, Claire nudged Juliet toward the kitchen.

"Come on, darling—help me with dessert. Cedric can stay put. He's only useful when there's Quidditch involved."

"Mum," Cedric protested.

Juliet grinned. "It's alright. I could use a break from his heroic broom mishaps."

In the warm kitchen, counters cluttered with baking tins, half-iced gingerbread, and a massive trifle layered like stained glass, Claire handed Juliet a tea towel.

"Just dry those bowls for me, love."

Juliet took it, letting the hum of the Diggory kitchen settle around her. Claire moved efficiently, flicking her wand to stir custard and check the oven.

After a moment, she spoke softly. "You know... Cedric's never brought a girl home for Christmas before."

Juliet froze mid-swipe. "Oh. I—didn't know that."

Claire smiled. "He's had crushes, little things. But he's never asked anyone to spend the holidays with us. That's special."

Juliet swallowed, pulse racing. "I—I didn't think it meant that much."

"It does. To all of us. But especially to him."

Juliet looked down at the bowl she was drying, suddenly shy. "He's... incredibly kind."

"He cares for you very much," Claire said gently. "I see the way he looks at you—like he's already trying to memorize everything."

Juliet's breath caught. "I care for him too."

Claire smiled knowingly. "I know."

"You know?"

"Oh, sweetheart," Claire said fondly, "I've been married long enough to recognize young love when it's standing in my hallway, blushing like it's caught stealing biscuits."

Juliet laughed, soft and embarrassed.

Before she could reply, familiar arms wrapped around her waist from behind, pulling her gently against a broad, warm chest.

"Are you stealing my mother from me?" Cedric murmured into her ear.

Juliet jumped. "Cedric! Merlin—don't sneak up like that."

Claire rolled her eyes affectionately. "Honestly. Didn't I tell you to stay put?"

"I did stay put," Cedric said, leaning down to kiss Juliet's temple before straightening abruptly. "For approximately forty-six seconds."

Juliet grinned. "That's a new record."

Cedric narrowed his eyes playfully. "Careful. I'll drop you in a snowbank."

"Try it," she dared.

Claire intervened smoothly. "If either of you go outside right now, you'll slip and break something valuable. We all know how clumsy Cedric can be-“

"Mum, seriously—"

Claire waved him off. "Go on, both of you. Amos is making hot coco. Cedric, stop hovering over Juliet like she'll vanish."

Cedric flushed but took Juliet's hand anyway, tugging her gently back toward the sitting room.

As they walked, Juliet whispered, "Your mum is going to tease you forever."

Cedric squeezed her hand. "tell me about it"

They reached the doorway, the glow of the fireplace spilling onto the carpet. The Christmas tree sparkled, the room warm and scented with pine and cinnamon.

Cedric leaned in, brushing her cheek with the back of his knuckles.

"You doing alright?" he asked softly.

Juliet looked at him — truly looked — at the boy who had kissed her upstairs like she was something precious, who had invited her home like she belonged.

She nodded. "Yeah. I'm... really alright."

Cedric smiled, gentle and relieved. "Good. Because I want to show you something."

"What is it?"

"You'll see." He tugged her lightly toward the stairs, excitement bubbling in his voice. "Come on."

Juliet let him pull her along, laughing.

She had no idea where he was taking her —

but she trusted him completely.

Cedric tugged Juliet up the last few stairs, stopping in the narrow landing where a single window overlooked the snowy orchard behind the house. Everything outside was still, quiet, blanketed in white — the kind of winter night that looked like it was holding its breath.

He glanced at her over his shoulder, a spark of mischief in his eyes.

"Fancy a walk?"

Juliet blinked. "Now? It's freezing."

"Yes Now," Cedric said, as if that explained everything. "Come on. It's perfect out."

He was already pulling on his boots by the front door when she caught up. Juliet bundled herself into her coat and scarf, and Cedric opened the door just enough for a rush of icy air to slip in.

She shivered. "You're mad."

He grinned. "Only a bit. Come on, pretty girl."

They stepped out into the snow.

The world outside was utterly silent — no wind, no voices, just the soft crunch of their steps. Cedric laced their fingers together, pulling her closer as they walked down the path toward the orchard.

Moonlight caught on the snow-laden branches, turning them silver. Their breath lingered in fragile clouds.

Juliet's voice was soft. "It's beautiful."

Cedric glanced down at her. "Yeah. It is."

She looked up just in time to catch him staring at her instead of the scenery.

"Cedric," she whispered, suddenly breathless. "Stop looking at me like that."

"I can't," he said simply.

Her cheeks burned hotter than the winter air would ever allow.

They walked deeper into the orchard until they reached the clearing where the snow stretched untouched, smooth as silk. Cedric stopped, turning to face her properly.

"Jules," he said quietly, hands still linked with hers, "I, brought you out here for a reason."

Her heart thudded.

Cedric took a breath — not nervous, exactly, but careful.

The way someone speaks when they're carrying something important.

"I didn't just ask you to come for Christmas because it 'felt right.' I mean, it did — it really did — but there's more to it." He swallowed. "I like you. A lot. More than I've liked anyone."

Juliet felt something inside her soften, melt, ache.

"You didn't have to bring me out in a blizzard to tell me," she whispered, a small laugh escaping her.

"Yeah, well," Cedric said, rubbing the back of his neck with his free hand, “Yeah, well,” Cedric said, rubbing the back of his neck with his free hand, “if I’d said it at dinner, Mum would’ve cried and Dad would’ve started talking about weddings.”

Juliet snorted. "Probably."

Cedric squeezed her hands. "But I'm serious. Jules... when you're around, I feel—" He searched for the word. "—lighter. Happier. Like everything makes more sense."

Her breath caught.

"And I know your family's strict," he said softly, "and I know you've had to hold a lot in. But with me, you don't have to do that. You can just... be."

Juliet looked away, blinking hard as the cold nipped at her lashes. "Cedric..."

He cupped her cheek gently, turning her face back toward him.

"You don't have to say anything back," he murmured. "I just needed you to know."

Juliet leaned into his hand, heart pounding, throat tight.

"I like you too," she whispered. "More than I should. More than I planned."

Cedric's smile was slow, warm, disbelieving. "Yeah?"

"Yeah."

He kissed her again — deeper this time, snowflakes catching on his eyelashes, their breath warm between them. Her hands curled into the front of his coat, and Cedric pressed his forehead to hers when they parted, both laughing softly for no reason at all.

"Come on," he whispered. "Before your nose freezes off."

They walked back to the house with their hands still tangled together.

*

Later that night, after coco

The house settled into quiet.

Cedric poked his head into the living room. "Jules? You awake?"

Barely. She was curled under a knitted blanket, warm and heavy-eyed. "Mmhm."

"Come upstairs," Cedric said softly. "I've got something for you."

"what are-" she said before he cut her off

He offered his hand. "Come on."

She followed him to his room, the only light coming from the little string of fairy lights above his bed. It cast everything in soft gold — warm and intimate and very Cedric.

He gestured for her to sit on the edge of his bed.

She did.

Cedric rummaged through a drawer, clearly trying to be subtle and absolutely failing. Then he sat beside her, holding a small wrapped box, tied with silver ribbon.

"I got you something. I know we said no gifts, but—"

"Ced—"

"—I panicked," he finished.

Juliet laughed softly. "Open yours first."

She pulled a small package from her bag and handed it to him. His eyebrows shot up. "You panicked too?"

"Obviously."

Cedric opened it carefully — and froze.

Inside was a Quidditch glove. His glove. Repaired. Polished. Restitched by hand in places he'd torn crashing into the pitch wall that one memorable practice.

His voice went soft. " you fixed it?"

She nodded shyly. "You said it was your favourite pair. I thought... you might want to keep it."

Cedric swallowed hard, emotion tightening his voice. "I love it. Thank you."

Then he nudged the silver box toward her.

"Your turn."

Juliet unwrapped it — slowly — and when she opened the lid, her breath caught.

Inside was a necklace.

A small silver star on a delicate chain.

Cedric's voice was quiet. "You've always liked the stars. And you... you feel like one. To me."

Juliet's throat closed. "Cedric... this is beautiful."

"Do you like it?"

"I love it."

He reached behind her carefully, fingers brushing the back of her neck as he clasped it. Juliet shivered — not from cold.

"Perfect," he murmured. "It suits you."

They stayed like that, close, quiet, breath mingling.

Cedric whispered, "Do you want to go to bed? It's late and. you were already falling asleep "

Juliet shook her head slowly.

“Stay here. Just… stay with me a bit.”

They lay down on his bed, facing one another, blankets pulled over them. Cedric tucked an arm beneath her waist, gentle but sure.

Juliet rested her forehead against his collarbone, breathing in cedar and peppermint and warmth.

"You comfortable?" he murmured into her hair.

She nodded, eyes already drifting closed. "Very."

Cedric pulled her closer, protective, soft.

"Merry Christmas, pretty girl."

Juliet's voice was sleepy and sincere.

"Merry Christmas, Ced."

The snow fell silently outside his window.

And for the first time in a very long time, Juliet fell asleep feeling completely safe —

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character 

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott. He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But in fifth year, everything changes when the two agree to a fake dating arrangement to make certain people jealous. What starts as teasing and stolen glances slowly turns into late-night conversations, lingering touches, and feelings neither of them were supposed to catch. Theodore becomes Jules’ escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. But some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how hard they try to hold on.

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup".

word count: 1.5k

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

notes: Thank you all so much for the support so far. It means the world to me. Also wanna make it very clear incase if it's confusing . Jules is in 5th year just like Harry and the rest which would mean Cedric is in 6th!

September 5th, 1995

5th year

Juliet bolted into the arms of her best friend, grinning as she called his name.

"Jules! How are you?" Fred said, catching her in a tight hug.

"I've been great, Freddie. Sorry I couldn't visit over break—you know how my father gets," she said, pulling back and straightening her clothes . Fred just nodded, understanding as always. Her father never approved of her spending time with the Weasleys, but that had never stopped her. She adored them—they were family, in every way that counted.

"How about you? How've you been?" she asked, looking up at him.

"Doing good, though it's bittersweet—my final year at Hogwarts," he said, a frown tugging at his face.

"Don't remind me," she groaned, hugging him again. "I'll start crying on the spot."

"What are you going to do without me?" he teased, laughing into the hug.

"Die. That's what's going to happen," she joked, pulling back.

"How's the family?" she asked, smiling.

"They're brilliant. George and I have been testing our latest pranks on Hermione. Ron's still hopelessly in love with her."

."He's  fancied her since first year so nothing new." Jules said unbothered

"Gross—you knew and didn't tell me?!" he said, pulling a disgusted face.

"Hey, not my business to tell," she said, hands raised.

"Fair enough..." Fred gave a grin, then tilted his head. "Look at you, Jules—you've grown up."

"Alright, alright, I get it," she laughed.

"No, seriously—you've got fit," he said bluntly.

"Why thank you for noticing " she giggled.

Then his tone shifted. "Have you seen him yet?"

Her stomach dropped. "Nope. And I hope I don't," she said firmly.

Fred knew. He had been the only one to truly understand how broken she'd been after Cedric. She'd written to him every day, and Fred always replied. Cedric's absence had stung, but not getting closure—that had destroyed her.

"Well," Fred said, nudging her arm, "once he sees you, he'll regret ever hurting you. Look at you, Jules—you're stunning."

"I know you're only trying to make me feel better, Freddie," she said softly, "but you know what would actually help? Helping me unpack."

He groaned. "Nope. Not a chance."

"Please? Pretty please? It'll be quick," she begged, giving him her best puppy eyes.

He sighed. "Fine. Let's get on with it."

As they walked toward her dorm, they caught up on everything missed—Fred and George's latest pranks, the usual banter about Hogwarts life. Juliet had missed this.

"You and George are going to smash it once you're out of here," she said.

"You sound very sure of that" he said, grinning. But her attention shifted. A familiar laugh echoed down the corridor.

She froze.

Cedric Diggory, with Cho Chang.

Her chest tightened. Foolish, really—why should she care? The whole summer had passed. But her body didn't seem to get the memo; she couldn't tear her eyes away.

"Come on, Jules, let's go..." Fred murmured, nudging her.

"Oh—hey, Jules!" Cho's voice was annoyingly sweet.

Juliet forced a smile. "Hey, Cho."

"Hey, Cho," Fred echoed, trying to break the tension.

"Greengrass."

Cedric's voice was cool and detached. Just Greengrass. Not Jules. Not beautiful. Not the girl he had kissed right here a year ago. Just a stranger.

"Cho—always a pleasure," she said evenly. "Diggory."

She nodded at him once, refusing to meet his eyes, and turned on her heel before the tears could spill. Fred didn't follow—thank Merlin for that. She didn't want him to see her break.

Her thoughts raced. He was kissing her—right here—Cho. The girl he had said not to worry about. Was that why he left without a word? Why wasn't she enough anymore?

By the time Juliet reached the Astronomy Tower, her mascara was running and her mind a blur. She froze. Smoke curled lazily through the air.

Brilliant. Just what she needed.

"Greengrass?"

Of course.

"Theodore bloody Nott," she muttered under her breath, turning.

"Merlin, why are you everywhere?" she said, wiping her eyes, trying to look composed.

Theo held out a cigarette—well, a joint. "Want some?" he asked casually. "Looks like you could use it. Don't feel you have to, though."

She hesitated, then took it. The smoke burned but numbed the ache just enough.

"So," Theo said after a moment, "you gonna tell me what's wrong?"

"No need," she murmured, staring down at the joint.

"Just because I'm asking doesn't mean I care, you know," he said, smirking.

"I suppose you're right," she muttered. "But if I tell you, you can't laugh."

"I won't," he said, holding up his pinky. "Promise."

She linked hers with his, forcing a small smile.

"It's Cedric," she admitted. "I saw him earlier—kissing Cho Chang."

Theo raised an eyebrow, half-chuckling. "Cho Chang? You're joking."

"I wish I was."

"I bet your boy's regretting that already," he said, looking her straight in the eye.

Juliet looked away. "Don't know, don't care."

He didn't believe her. She didn't even believe herself.

"It's just messing with my head," she admitted quietly. "Why her? The one girl he told me not to worry about—the one I never got along with. What did I do wrong?"

Theo exhaled, smoke drifting into the night. "Don't have an answer for you, Greengrass. But if it were me, I'd get back at him."

"Get back at him?" she asked, frowning.

"Yeah. Find someone he hates and make it look like you're close. Let him regret it."

She scoffed. "The only person he hates that much is you. And I've said I'd rather throw myself off this tower than be with you."

He grinned. "Then it's perfect. Pretend to be with me. You get your revenge, I get mine."

"You're mental," she said, laughing despite herself. "We just waltz around school pretending to be some couple? For a few months?"

He shrugged. "Until Christmas, maybe. You get back at Diggory, I get back at Daphne for dumping me for Pucey. Everyone wins. Think about it, yeah?"

With that, Theodore Nott flicked the joint away and left, the scent of smoke and trouble lingering in the tower.

Juliet sat in silence, staring at the stars, the smouldering joint between her fingers.

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character 

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott. He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But in fifth year, everything changes when the two agree to a fake dating arrangement to make certain people jealous. What starts as teasing and stolen glances slowly turns into late-night conversations, lingering touches, and feelings neither of them were supposed to catch. Theodore becomes Jules’ escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. But some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how hard they try to hold on.

Masterlist

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup".

word count: 3k

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

notes: im so sorry for going ghost a couple of days I was on a family trip with little to no WiFi but don’t worry i have another chapter coming to you very very soon!

Morning came far too soon.

Juliet woke to a thin strip of pale gold sunlight slipping through the curtains of her four-poster, warming the edge of her blanket. For one blissful moment she lay still, half-dazed with sleep.

Then it all came rushing back.

The corridor.

Cedric.

The look on Harry's face.

Theo.

Her stomach gave an unpleasant twist.

She stared up at the deep red canopy above her bed, fingers curling tighter into the duvet.

Across the dormitory, Mace was already up, half inside her trunk as though she meant to climb straight into it.

"Well, look who's finally joined the living," she said, not bothering to look up.

Juliet let out a breath that might have been a laugh. "Charming."

Jordin, who was sat cross-legged on her bed dragging a brush through her hair, glanced over with a softer expression.

"You alright?"

Juliet pushed herself upright, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

"Bit tired," she said.

Olivia, already perfectly turned out in her uniform, tie straight and robes neat, gave Juliet a measured look over the top of her book.

"He's not worth another thought."

Juliet nodded slowly.

"I know."

Even so, her fingers drifted instinctively to the silver star resting against her collarbone.

A knock sounded at the door.

Jordin hopped up to answer it.

When the door opened, she blinked.

"You're joking."

Harry stood there, one hand shoved awkwardly into his robe pocket, glasses slightly crooked and hair looking as though he'd had a row with his pillow and lost.

Behind him, the Slytherin common room flickered green with lake light.

Juliet sat up straighter. "Harry?"

He gave a slightly sheepish shrug. "Hi."

Jordin stepped aside slowly, still looking confused. "How did you even—?"

Harry rubbed the back of his neck. "Er—George helped."

From her trunk, Mace let out a loud, delighted laugh. "Of course he did."

Olivia closed her book with a soft snap. "That explains everything and nothing at the same time."

Harry glanced back toward Juliet. "You lot coming down for breakfast?"

But his eyes settled on her almost immediately.

Mace's grin turned sharp. "Oh, this just keeps getting better."

Juliet shot her a look. "Ignore her."

Harry blinked. "What?"

"Nothing," Jordin said quickly, clearly entertained now.

Juliet swung her legs over the side of the bed and reached for her books.

"I'm going to give breakfast a miss," she said. "Got loads of work to catch up on. Thought I'd head to the library before it fills up."

Harry frowned. "You sure?"

Juliet gave him a small smile. "Yeah. I'm alright. Just behind on revision."

He hesitated, still not fully convinced, then nodded.

"Right. Don't work yourself to death."

"I won't."

As he turned to leave, Mace called after him, "Tell George he's a legend."

Harry huffed a quiet laugh. "Will do."

Most of the school had already gone down to the Great Hall, leaving the stone passageways cool and echoing.

Juliet walked quickly, books hugged to her chest, the silver star necklace cool against her skin.

She'd nearly reached the staircase leading to the library when a voice stopped her in her tracks.

"Julie"

Her stomach dropped.

Cedric.

He was leaning against the wall just beyond the turning, tie loosened slightly, dark circles shadowing his eyes.

He looked as though he hadn't slept either.

For a moment neither of them spoke.

Then Cedric straightened.

"I've been looking for you."

Juliet's expression cooled at once.

"What is it now, Diggory? What more could you possibly want from me?"

A flicker of discomfort crossed his face.

"About last night—"

She let out a short, bitter laugh.

"If you're here to slut-shame me again, frankly, I'm not in the mood."

Cedric's jaw tightened.

"I shouldn't have said what I said."

"No," Juliet replied, her voice crisp as frost, "you absolutely shouldn't have."

He ran a hand through his hair, visibly frustrated.

"I was angry."

Juliet stared at him, disbelief flashing across her face.

"And that excuses it, does it?"

"That's not what I'm saying."

"Then what are you saying, Cedric?"

Her voice was low, sharp enough to cut.

He took a step closer.

"I hated seeing you with them."

Juliet frowned.

"With them?"

"With Nott. Potter. Anyone."

Her eyes flashed.

"You don't get to stand here and act as though I've done something wrong."

Cedric opened his mouth, but Juliet cut him off before he could speak.

"No — actually, listen to me for once."

The force in her voice made him fall silent.

"You're the reason things are like this."

The words hung in the corridor.

Cedric stared at her.

Juliet's grip tightened around her books.

"You ended things with me," she said, her voice quieter now but no less sharp. "You walked away."

A flicker of guilt crossed his face.

"So don't stand there looking at me like I'm the one who ruined something."

Cedric swallowed.

"That's not fair."

Juliet let out a cold laugh.

"Not fair?"

She stepped closer, eyes bright with anger and hurt.

"You left me to make sense of it on my own. You left me wondering what I'd done wrong, what changed, what part of me suddenly wasn't enough."

Cedric's face fell.

"I never meant for it to be like that."

"Well, it is."

Her voice shook slightly now, but she held his gaze.

"So if seeing me with other people hurts, maybe remember that you're the reason we're here."

The words landed harder than anything else she'd said.

Cedric went still.

Before he could answer, another voice drifted down the corridor.

"Well. This is cosy."

Theo Nott stood near the library doors, one shoulder against the stone arch, looking far too pleased with himself.

His tie was crooked, dark hair untidy in a way that somehow looked deliberate.

Cedric's face darkened at once.

"Nott."

Theo ignored him completely.

His gaze settled lazily on Juliet.

"Skipping breakfast, are we?"

Juliet tightened her hold on her books.

"I'm going to the library."

Theo's mouth curved.

"How funny. I was just on my way there myself, darling."

Cedric took a sharp step forward.

"Don't start."

Theo finally looked at him then, eyes cool and faintly amused.

"Bit touchy this morning, Diggory. What would Cho say if she saw you now?"

The air between them changed at once.

Juliet felt it like the crackle before a storm.

Cedric's shoulders went rigid.

"You've done enough."

Theo gave a soft, humourless laugh.

"Have I?"

The question was light, but there was something dangerous beneath it.

Juliet suddenly felt caught between two fires.

Cedric's anger was hot, immediate.

Theo's was quieter.

Sharper.

Far worse.

Theo's eyes flicked back to her.

"You look exhausted, Juliet."

The way he said it — soft, almost knowing — made her stomach tighten.

Cedric noticed.

His jaw clenched.

"Stay away from her."

Theo's smile sharpened.

"I don't recall asking permission."

Juliet drew herself up, voice suddenly cold.

"Both of you, stop."

The corridor fell silent.

She looked first at Cedric.

"You don't get to speak to me like you did last night and then act as though you have any right to decide who I speak to — after leaving me in the dark for weeks."

Then her eyes moved to Theo.

"And you — stop enjoying this."

For the first time, Theo's smile faltered.

Juliet stepped past both of them, chin lifted.

"I'm going to the library. Alone."

And neither of them stopped her.

Juliet pushed the library doors closed behind her. The warm light hit the polished tables and shelves of books, and for a moment it felt like a different world. She set her things down, stacking her books and unrolling parchment.

She dipped her quill in ink, forcing herself to focus on the notes in front of her. Charms, mostly. The words blurred after a line or two.

Cedric's face flicked through her mind. The tight jaw, the hurt in his eyes, the way he'd just... stared. And Theo — leaning in the doorway, that smug tilt to his smile, like he was enjoying every bit of the chaos.

She pressed her hand to her forehead and tried to shake it off. Focus, Juliet.

Her quill hovered, and she realised she hadn't written anything in minutes. The library, usually comforting, felt too quiet. Every creak of the floorboards, every shuffle of robes from a passing student drew her attention away.

Her fingers brushed the silver star at her collarbone. Small, solid, hers. Not that it made anything simpler.

She leaned back, letting out a quiet breath. The notes were there, waiting. The work was waiting. But somehow, nothing felt worth concentrating on.

Juliet picked up her quill again, scribbled a line, then stopped. Her eyes wandered to the empty space at the table opposite. A part of her half-expected Theo to be there, smirking.

She shook her head, muttering under her breath. "Focus."

And she tried.

Juliet set her quill down again and rubbed her temples. She forced herself to glance at the parchment, to trace the same line a few times until it made sense. Slowly, painstakingly, the words began to stick. She took notes, copied a few incantations, and by the time the sun had shifted higher through the library windows, she'd actually made some progress.

By mid-morning, Juliet gathered her books and notes, tucking them carefully into her satchel. She gave herself a small, private nod of approval. At least she hadn't let the morning completely get away from her.

Classes passed in a blur of lessons and parchment, each hour helping her push the corridor confrontation out of her mind — or at least, into a corner where it could simmer quietly. Potions, Transfiguration, Defence Against the Dark Arts; she focused on the instructions, repeated the spells, and kept her answers precise. Cedric and Theo were never far from her thoughts, but she managed to keep her face neutral, her mind on the work at hand.

By the time the final lesson ended, Juliet was tired — physically and mentally — but there was a calm satisfaction in having made it through.

She lingered a moment in the empty classroom, straightening her robes, brushing stray strands of hair from her face. Then, with a careful breath, she left and made her way down toward the dungeons.

The Slytherin common room was dim and cool, green light rippling softly through the windows as the lake pressed in on the glass. It was quieter than the rest of the castle — calmer.

Juliet sank into one of the low armchairs, setting her satchel beside her, letting out a small breath.

The common room wrapped around her like a quiet shield.

For the first time all day, Juliet let herself sit still.

The low murmur of a few scattered Slytherins drifted through the room, mixed with the soft crackle of the fire and the slow, wavering light from the lake beyond the windows. It was dim enough to be comforting, not oppressive.

She leaned back into the armchair, closing her eyes for just a moment.

"Rough day?"

Juliet didn't bother opening them. She recognized the voice instantly.

"That obvious?" she murmured.

A soft huff of amusement.

"Painfully."

She opened her eyes then.

Theo had dropped into the armchair opposite her, one leg stretched out, the other bent, watching her with that same infuriatingly calm expression. His tie was still crooked.

Juliet exhaled slowly. "If you're here to start something, I'm not in the mood."

"I gathered," he said lightly. "You've already had your fill of dramatics for one morning."

Her eyes narrowed slightly. "You were eavesdropping."

Theo tilted his head. "Hard not to when Diggory practically announces his presence like a public service warning."

Despite herself, Juliet huffed a quiet breath through her nose.

Silence settled between them for a moment.

Then

"You meant it, didn't you?" Theo said.

Juliet stilled. "Meant what?"

"That you wanted to be left alone."

His tone had shifted — still quiet, but more deliberate now.

Juliet looked at him properly then, searching his face for the usual mockery.

It wasn't there.

"Yes," she said after a moment. "I did."

Theo held her gaze for a second longer than necessary... then nodded once, almost to himself.

"Alright."

That was it.

No teasing remark. No smirk.

Just that.

Juliet blinked, caught slightly off guard.

"You're not going to argue?"

He shrugged faintly, gaze drifting toward the fire. "Doesn't seem like you'd listen if I did."

"That's never stopped you before."

A ghost of a smile touched his mouth. "Fair point."

Another pause.

Juliet shifted slightly in her seat, studying him now. "You enjoy it, don't you?"

Theo glanced back at her. "Enjoy what?"

"All of it," she said. "The tension. Winding Cedric up. Making everything worse."

For a moment, he didn't answer.

"I enjoy honesty," he said.

Something about the way he said it made her chest tighten, just slightly.

"You think he's being honest with you?"

Juliet's expression hardened almost immediately. "I think it doesn't matter anymore."

Theo watched her carefully. "That wasn't my question."

Juliet looked away.

The firelight flickered across her face, catching the tension in her jaw.

"I think," she said slowly, "that he doesn't get to pick and choose when he cares."

Theo's gaze didn't waver.

"That sounds like a no."

Juliet let out a quiet breath, something tired and edged.

"It sounds like I'm done trying to figure him out."

That, at least, was true.

Theo leaned back again, studying her like she was something complicated he hadn't quite decided how to approach.

"You're not, though."

Her eyes snapped back to his. "Excuse me?"

"If you were done," he said calmly, "you wouldn't look like that every time his name comes up."

Juliet's grip tightened slightly on the arm of the chair.

"You don't know anything about what I look like."

Theo's mouth twitched faintly. "Trust me I do.”

She looked away again, jaw set, but quieter now.

Theo let the silence stretch this time.

No pushing.

Just... there.

After a while, Juliet spoke again, her voice softer.

"You didn't have to say anything back there."

Theo glanced at her. "In the corridor?"

"Yes."

A beat.

"I know."

Juliet frowned slightly. "Then why did you?"

He considered that for a moment.

Then, simply—

"Because he was wrong."

The answer landed heavier than she expected.

Juliet searched his face again, but whatever edge or mockery she might have expected... still wasn't there.

Just that same quiet certainty.

Her fingers drifted unconsciously to the silver star at her collarbone again.

Theo noticed.

His eyes flicked to it briefly... then back to her.

"Does it help?" he asked.

Juliet hesitated. "What?"

"Keeping it on."

Her fingers stilled.

She looked down at the necklace, then back at him.

"Definitely," she admitted.

Theo nodded once, like that made perfect sense.

The fire crackled softly between them.

Juliet’s fingers drifted to the silver star resting against her collarbone.

Theo’s eyes followed the movement.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you without it.”

She simply stared at the pendant.

The silver had worn smooth over the years from constant handling.

“Cedric gave it to me.”

The words slipped out before she could stop them.

Theo’s gaze flickered back to the necklace.

“He did?”

Juliet nodded.

“Christmas. Last year.”

Something softened in her expression.

Despite everything.

Despite the hurt.

The memory still lived somewhere warm inside her.

“It was the first Christmas I spent with his family.”

Theo leaned back slightly, listening.

Juliet stared into the fire.

“I stayed with the Diggorys over the holiday.”

A small smile touched her lips.

“They practically adopted me for Christmas”

“The Diggorys seem like that sort.”

“They are.”

The smile grew.

“His mum spent the entire day feeding me.”

Theo snorted.

“Sounds terrifying.”

“It was.”

Juliet laughed softly.

Then her gaze dropped back to the necklace.

“We’d spent most of the day together. Dinner, presents, drinking hot cocoa…”

Her voice grew quieter.

“Later that night, after everyone had gone to bed, Cedric came and found me.”

Theo remained silent.

Giving her room to continue.

“He said he had something for me.”

Juliet’s thumb brushed across one of the silver points.

“He gave me this.”

The firelight caught against the pendant.

“It was in a little silver box with a ribbon around it.”

Theo looked at the necklace for a long moment.

“A star.”

Juliet nodded.

“He knew how much I’ve always liked the stars.”

A faint laugh escaped her.

Theo blinked.

Juliet smiled despite herself.

For a moment she could almost see it.

The way he’d looked at her when he fastened the clasp around her neck.

Her chest tightened.

The words came out quieter than she intended.

Theo’s expression shifted slightly.

Not pity.

Not jealousy.

Just understanding.

“I’ve worn it ever since.”

The common room fell silent again.

Only the fire crackled.

Theo’s gaze lingered on the necklace before returning to her face.

“Sounds like you really loved the git”

Juliet’s breath caught.

There was no accusation in his voice.

And somehow that made it harder to answer.

Her fingers closed around the silver star.

After a long moment, she looked down at it.

“Yeah.”

The word was barely above a whisper.

“Yeah, I did.”

Juliet kept her eyes fixed on the silver star in her hand, suddenly feeling far more exposed than she had a moment ago.

She wasn’t sure why she’d told him all of that.

Maybe because he hadn’t pushed.

Maybe because he’d listened.

Or maybe because she was tired of carrying everything by herself.

“You still do.”

The words were quiet.

Juliet looked up.

Theo was watching her steadily.

“What?”

“You still love him.”

Juliet’s chest tightened.

For a second, she wanted to argue.

To tell him he was wrong.

That he didn’t know what he was talking about.

But the words never came.

Instead, she looked away.

“I don’t know.”

Theo hummed softly.

It wasn’t agreement.

It wasn’t disagreement.

Just acknowledgment.

Juliet let out a tired breath.

“That’s the problem.”

The firelight danced across the common room walls.

Theo remained silent.

Waiting.

“Part of me hates him,” Juliet admitted.

The confession hung heavily in the air.

“I hate how he ended things.”

Her fingers tightened around the necklace.

“I hate that he walked away and never explained why.”

Another breath.

“I hate that he looked at me yesterday like I was the one who did something wrong.”

Theo’s jaw tightened slightly.

Juliet noticed.

But she continued.

“And then…”

Her voice softened.

“I remember moments like those that we shared together “

She glanced down at the star.

“The way he’d look at me.”

“The way he made me feel like I belonged somewhere.”

A sad smile touched her lips.

“And suddenly I don’t know what to do with all of it.”

The common room fell quiet again.

Finally, Theo leaned forward slightly.

“You don’t have to do anything with it.”

Juliet frowned.

“What?”

Theo shrugged.

“You act like you have to pick one.”

She stared at him.

“Pick one what?”

“Either you hate him or you forgive him.”

Juliet blinked.

Theo’s gaze drifted toward the fire.

“But people aren’t usually that simple.”

His voice was calm.

Steady.

“You can be angry at him.”

“You can miss him.”

“You can wish things had been different.”

“You can still care about him.”

Juliet swallowed.

“And?”

Theo looked back at her.

“And none of that means you have to let him back in.”

The words hit harder than she expected.

Because no one had said it like that before.

Everyone else seemed to think she should either move on completely or run back to Cedric the second he looked sorry.

Theo was the first person who’d acknowledged the space in between.

Juliet stared at him for a moment.

“That’s surprisingly wise.”

The corner of his mouth twitched.

“Don’t sound so shocked.”

“I’m very shocked.”

“I’ll pretend I’m offended.”

A small laugh escaped her.

The first genuine one she’d managed all evening.

Theo’s expression softened.

“There she is.”

Juliet rolled her eyes.

“You’re insufferable.”

“So I’ve been told.”

The familiar ease returned between them.

Lighter now.

Less fragile.

For a while, neither of them spoke.

The fire burned low.

Not healed.

Not fixed.

Just… lighter.

Then Theo’s eyes flicked to the necklace one last time.

“If it helps,” he said quietly, “I think he was a bloody idiot.”

Juliet laughed.

Theo looked pleased with himself.

“That wasn’t what I was expecting.”

“I know.”

The smile lingering on her face surprised them both.

“ It’s getting late.”

Juliet glanced toward the clock.

Somehow, hours had passed.

“Merlin.”

“Exactly.”

She gathered her books.

Neither of them seemed particularly eager to leave.

Which was strange.

Because sitting with Theo had never felt easy before.

And yet now…

It did.

Theo walked her to the girls’ staircase.

“Goodnight, Juliet.”

“Goodnight, Theo.”

He turned to leave.

Then—

“Theo?”

He glanced back.

“Yeah?”

Juliet hesitated.

“Thanks.”

Something softened in his expression.

“Anytime Love.”

Then he disappeared down the corridor.

For a long moment, Juliet remained where she was.

Her fingers drifted to the silver star at her throat.

But for once…

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character 

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott. He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But in fifth year, everything changes when the two agree to a fake dating arrangement to make certain people jealous. What starts as teasing and stolen glances slowly turns into late-night conversations, lingering touches, and feelings neither of them were supposed to catch. Theodore becomes Jules’ escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. But some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how hard they try to hold on.

Masterlist

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup", mentions of fighting & blood.

word count: 3.3k

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

notes: guys I needed to do a time jump bc I js realized I needed to lock in asap & im sorry if this chapter is a little rushed my sister helped me cook something up LOL but I hope you guys enjoy!

The conversation Juliet and Theo had that evening lingered long after they said goodnight.

Something had shifted between them.

Not dramatically. Not all at once.

Just enough.

After that, it became easier to understand one another.

The sharp edges that had once defined every interaction slowly began to soften. Their conversations came more naturally now, slipping from teasing remarks and sarcastic comments into something easier. Something familiar.

They had a plan.

At least, that was what Juliet kept telling herself.

And from the outside, it seemed to be working.

The whispers had started to die down.

People had stopped questioning why she and Theo spent so much time together.

Most importantly, Cedric seemed determined to keep his distance.

For the first time in weeks, Juliet felt like she could breathe again.

Or at least, she thought she could.

The weeks that followed passed in a blur of classes, essays, Quidditch practices, and long evenings spent in the Slytherin common room.

Without meaning to, Theo became a constant presence.

It started with small things.

A seat saved beside him at breakfast.

A spare quill appearing on the table before she realized she’d forgotten hers.

The quiet way he’d slide a cup of tea toward her whenever she looked particularly exhausted.

Little things.

Things that shouldn’t have mattered.

Yet somehow, they did.

Theo learned quickly that Juliet became unusually quiet whenever she was stressed.

Not angry.

Not upset.

Just quiet.

Most people never seemed to notice.

Theo always did.

“You’ve got that look again.”

Juliet glanced up from her Charms essay.

“What look?”

“The one where you’re about three seconds away from launching yourself into the Black Lake.”

“I do not have a look.”

“You absolutely have a look.”

Across the table, Theo didn’t even bother looking up from his book.

Juliet narrowed her eyes.

“You’re insufferable.”

“So you've told me."

A smile tugged at her mouth despite herself

Something Theo immediately noticed.

Of course he did.

As the next few weeks settled over Hogwarts, moments like that became surprisingly common.

And for the first time in a long while, Juliet found herself laughing more than she cried.

Which was precisely how Cedric noticed.

It happened on a Thursday afternoon.

The Great Hall buzzed with conversation as students escaped the cold after classes.

Cedric had barely touched the food on his plate.

Cho was saying something beside him.

He wasn’t listening.

His attention had drifted elsewhere.

To the Slytherin table.

Juliet sat surrounded by her friends.

Laughing.

Not forcing it.

Not pretending.

Laughing.

Theo said something from across the table.

Cedric couldn’t hear what.

But whatever it was made Juliet roll her eyes before she laughed again.

The sound carried faintly across the Hall.

For a moment, Cedric forgot how to breathe.

Because he realized something he hadn’t wanted to admit.

She looked happy.

Not the kind of happy she wore for other people.

Not the carefully constructed smile she’d been carrying around since their breakup.

Genuinely happy.

And Theo Nott was sitting right beside her.

Cedric looked away first.

A strange ache settled heavily in his chest.

Because for weeks he’d told himself this was temporary.

That eventually things would go back to normal.

That eventually she’d look at him the way she used to but watching her now.

Unfortunately for Cedric, things only seemed to get worse.

Or better.

Depending on who you asked.

The problem wasn’t that Theo and Juliet were suddenly inseparable.

It was that they weren’t.

Not really.

There was no dramatic declaration. No grand gesture.

Nothing anyone could point to and say, See? That’s what’s happening.

It was smaller than that.

Far more dangerous.

It was the way Theo automatically shifted his books aside whenever Juliet approached the library table.

The way Juliet looked for him without realizing she was doing it.

The way conversations that once felt forced now seemed effortless.

As though they’d somehow found a rhythm neither of them had been expecting.

One afternoon, Theo dropped into the seat beside her in Potions.

“Move.”

Juliet didn’t even glance up from her textbook.

“No.”

“You’re taking up my space.”

“Your space?”

“The space I’ve decided belongs to me.”

Juliet snorted.

Across the room, Pansy groaned dramatically.

“You two are disgusting.”

“We’re literally arguing,” Juliet replied.

“Exactly.”

Theo looked pleased by that.

Juliet hated that she noticed.

Even worse, she hated that she was beginning to understand him.

She knew the difference between his genuine smile and the fake one he wore when he was trying to annoy people.

She knew when his sarcasm was harmless and when it was hiding something.

She knew he became quieter whenever conversations drifted toward family.

And Theo—

Theo seemed to know entirely too much about her.

“You hate Tuesdays.”

Juliet looked up from her breakfast.

“What?”

Theo stabbed a piece of toast with his fork.

“You hate Tuesdays.”

“I don’t hate Tuesdays.”

“You complain every Tuesday.”

“That’s because Tuesdays deserve it.”

Theo nodded.

“Exactly.”

Mace nearly choked on her pumpkin juice.

“How do you even know that?”

Theo shrugged.

Juliet immediately wished he hadn’t.

Because the answer came far too easily.

“I pay attention.”

Something strange flickered across the table.

Gone before anyone could properly examine it.

But not before Juliet felt it.

Not before Theo did too.

Neither acknowledged it.

Instead—

“You’re staring.”

Juliet blinked.

Theo was looking at her over the rim of his cup.

“What?”

“You’ve been staring at the same page for ten minutes.”

She immediately looked back at her homework.

“I have not.”

“You have.”

“Have not.”

“You have.”

Juliet threw a crumpled piece of parchment at his head.

Theo caught it without looking.

The idiot.

The absolute idiot.

And yet—

Her lips twitched.

Theo’s did too.

Across the Great Hall, Cedric saw the entire thing.

The easy laughter.

The familiar teasing.

The way Juliet’s face lit up.

For a horrible second, he remembered what that looked like.

Because once—

It had been him.

Cho followed his gaze.

She didn’t say anything immediately.

Just watched.

Then—

“Cedric.”

He looked away at once.

Too quickly.

Too obviously.

Cho’s expression softened.

Which somehow made it worse.

“You keep looking over there.”

“I’m not.”

“You are.”

Cedric stared down at his plate.

His appetite vanished completely.

Cho was quiet for a moment.

Then—

“Do you still love her?”

The question hit harder than any Bludger.

Cedric froze.

Across the room, Juliet laughed at something Theo said.

The sound echoed faintly through the Hall.

And for the first time, Cedric didn’t have an answer.

Because maybe the question wasn’t whether he loved her.

Maybe the question was whether he’d realized it too late.

A loud voice suddenly cut through the Hall.

Cormac Mclaggen had climbed onto the bench.

“ONE MORE WEEK UNTIL HUFFLEPUFF GETS HUMILIATED.”

The Slytherin table erupted.

Cheering.

Shouting.

Theo immediately stood.

“Finally. Someone talking sense.”

Juliet rolled her eyes.

“Oh, please.”

Theo looked scandalized.

“You’re not supporting Hufflepuff.”

“I have friends in Hufflepuff.”

“You have terrible judgement.”

“You’re unbelievable.”

“I’m right.”

The argument continued all the way out of the Great Hall.

Neither of them noticed Cedric watching them leave.

Or the knot tightening in his stomach.

Because Saturday was the Slytherin versus Hufflepuff match.

The moment they stepped into the corridor, Theo stopped abruptly.

“One more thing.”

Juliet looked at him suspiciously.

“That tone never ends well.”

“It’ll make the plan more believable.”

She folded her arms.

“I’m listening.”

Theo glanced around the corridor to make sure no one was paying attention before lowering his voice.

“Wear my jumper tomorrow.”

Juliet blinked.

“Your… what?”

“My Quidditch jumper.”

She stared at him.

“The green one.”

“I know which jumper you’re talking about.”

“Good.”

Juliet let out a disbelieving laugh.

“Absolutely not.”

Theo sighed dramatically.

“Think about it.”

“I am thinking about it.”

“No, you’re judging it.”

“They’re the same thing.”

“They’re really not.”

He stepped closer, lowering his voice even further.

“Come on, darling. Everyone knows girlfriends steal jumpers.”

Juliet’s cheeks warmed instantly.

“We are not—”

“I know.”

Theo grinned.

“But everyone else doesn’t.”

She opened her mouth to argue.

Then paused.

He wasn’t entirely wrong.

She’d seen it countless times over the years.

Girls wrapped in oversized Quidditch jumpers that clearly didn’t belong to them.

She distinctly remembered seeing Daphne Greengrass wearing Adrian Pucey’s Slytherin jumper after one of the matches this season, she wondered if Theo had only asked her to wear his because of Daphne.

Juliet looked back at Theo.

“I hate that you’ve got a point.” She ignored her thoughts

“I usually do.”

“You really don’t.”

“I really do.”

She rolled her eyes so hard it almost hurt.

“If I say yes, will you stop looking so pleased with yourself?”

“No.”

“Theo.”

“But you’ll still wear it?”

Juliet let out a long, theatrical sigh.

“…Fine.”

His grin was immediate.

“Excellent.”

“But if anyone says anything—”

“They will.”

“I’m going to hex you.”

“Worth it.”

She shoved his shoulder as they reached the split in the corridor leading toward the boys’ and girls’ dormitories.

“Goodnight, Nott.”

“Night, darling.”

*

Juliet didn’t bother correcting him this time. Saturday morning arrived bright, cold, and buzzing with excitement.

By the time Juliet had finished getting ready, the castle was already alive with students making their way toward the Quidditch pitch.

She pulled the dark green jumper over her head, the sleeves hanging slightly past her hands. Before leaving, her fingers instinctively found the silver star resting against her collarbone.

She hesitated.

Then, without much thought, she tucked the necklace beneath the warmth of her scarf, letting the fabric conceal it completely.

Satisfied, she grabbed her gloves and made her way downstairs.

The common room was nearly empty.

Most of the Slytherins had already left.

As soon as Juliet stepped into the corridor, a familiar voice called after her.

“There you are.”

She turned.

Fred Weasley was leaning casually against the wall, hands shoved into his pockets, already wearing a broad grin.

“Took you long enough.”

Juliet laughed.

“I wasn’t aware you were keeping track.”

“I’ve been waiting nearly ten minutes.”

“You have not.”

“I have.”

She raised an eyebrow.

“Dramatic.”

“Says the one wearing Nott’s jumper.”

Juliet looked down briefly before shooting him a look.

“Oh, don’t start.”

Fred held both hands up innocently.

“I’m not judging.”

“No?”

“No.”

A beat.

“I am, however, going to enjoy watching everyone’s reactions.”

Juliet groaned.

“I knew this was a bad idea.”

Fred chuckled, falling into step beside her as they made their way toward the Entrance Hall.

“Relax.”

“Easy for you to say.”

“You’ll be fine.”

“…I hope you’re right.”

“Oh, I didn’t say that.”

Juliet let out an exasperated sigh, nudging his shoulder.

“I hate you.”

“No, you don’t.”

“…Maybe a little.”

Fred laughed loudly enough that several passing students turned to look.

“Come on,” he said, nudging her shoulder back. “Let’s go see if Slytherin and Hufflepuff can survive ninety minutes without starting a war.”

*

The match had been everything Hogwarts had expected.

Cold air whipped through the stands as green and gold banners fluttered overhead, students shouting themselves hoarse every time someone caught the Quaffle. Slytherin and Hufflepuff had spent nearly an hour trading goal after goal, neither side willing to give an inch.

Juliet sat between Fred and George in the stands, bundled in her scarf and Theo’s oversized Slytherin jumper.

“You know,” Fred mused as he watched the players circle overhead, “Nott’s actually playing like he’s got something to prove today.”

George nodded thoughtfully.

“Either that or Flint threatened to replace him.”

Juliet laughed quietly, shielding her eyes from the winter sun.

Far above them, Theo spotted her.

Even from where she sat, she caught the grin that spread across his face the moment he noticed the green sleeves hanging over her hands.

Rolling her eyes, she gave the smallest shake of her head.

Theo only smirked before banking sharply to intercept a Hufflepuff Chaser.

Fred noticed the exchange.

“…Merlin.”

“What?”

“I don’t know which one of you is worse.”

Juliet frowned.

“What are you talking about?”

“Nothing.”

He was smiling far too much.

The whistle echoed across the pitch.

Slytherin scored again.

The stands erupted.

By the time the final whistle blew, the scoreboard left little room for debate.

Slytherin had won.

Green exploded through the stands as students poured onto the pitch, cheering loudly enough to shake the castle itself.

Fred nudged Juliet.

“Come on.”

Together, they followed the crowd toward the players.

Theo had just climbed off his broom, cheeks flushed from the cold, dark hair windswept and damp with melting snow.

Juliet had barely taken another step before someone moved in front of him.

Cedric.

The celebration around them carried on, oblivious.

Cedric smiled politely.

“Congratulations.”

Theo regarded him for a moment.

“What can I say, Diggory? You made it rather easy.”

Cedric’s smile never faltered.

Instead, his eyes drifted past Theo.

Toward Juliet.

Toward the oversized Slytherin jumper.

A humorless laugh escaped him.

“Nice jumper.”

Theo folded his arms.

“Got a point?”

Cedric looked back at him.

“You really think putting your jumper on her changes anything?”

Theo didn’t answer.

Cedric’s gaze dropped to the silver star peeking out from beneath Juliet’s scarf.

His lips curled into a smug smile.

“She’ll wear your jumper if it makes you feel better.”

“But she never took off the necklace I gave her.”

“Guess we both know which one actually means something.”

Theo moved.

His fist connected with Cedric’s jaw.

Gasps rippled through the crowd.

Cedric stumbled before swinging back.

Within seconds the two of them were on the ground, snow flying as students shouted around them.

“Theo!”

Juliet pushed through the crowd.

By the time she reached them, Theo had Cedric pinned beneath him.

Another punch.

“Theo!”

He didn’t react.

“Theo, stop!”

Still nothing.

She grabbed his arm with both hands, pulling with everything she had.

“What are you doing?”

Theo finally looked up.

His chest rose and fell with quick breaths.

Blood stained his split lip.

Snow clung to his dark hair.

Juliet stared at him.

“Have you completely lost your mind?”

For a heartbeat, neither of them moved.

Then Fred and George reached them, pulling Theo back while a few Hufflepuffs helped Cedric sit upright.

Juliet immediately knelt beside Cedric.

“Cedric…”

“I’m alright.”

“No, you’re bleeding.”

She reached for her wand.

“Hold still.”

As she leaned forward, her scarf slipped from her shoulders.

The silver star necklace slid into view.

Juliet didn’t think anything of it.

She was too busy checking the cut on Cedric’s lip.

“Let me see.”

“I’m fine.”

“You don’t look fine.”

Cedric’s attention shifted somewhere over her shoulder.

Juliet followed his gaze instinctively.

Theo was standing exactly where Fred had left him.

He hadn’t moved.

She couldn’t read the expression on his face.

Not from this distance.

“Cedric?”

His attention returned to her.

“I’m alright, Jules.”

She let out a small breath.

“Good.”

Fred crouched beside them.

“Can you stand?”

“I’ll manage.”

Fred hauled him to his feet.

“Come on. Madam Pomfrey.”

Juliet watched the pair start toward the castle before turning back.

Theo was still there.

Watching.

She walked toward him.

“What was that?”

No answer.

“Theo.”

Nothing.

“You could’ve seriously hurt him.”

A short laugh escaped him.

“Could’ve.”

Juliet blinked.

“What is wrong with you?”

For a long moment, he simply looked at her.

His gaze dropped briefly.

To the silver star resting against her jumper.

Then back to her face.

“This…”

His voice was quiet.

“…is pathetic.”

Juliet frowned.

“What?”

“The whole thing.”

“Theo—”

“I listened to you every night you sat there trying to convince yourself you were over him.”

Her stomach tightened.

“I listened,” he continued quietly. “While you questioned yourself because of him.”

“I know.”

“And yet…”

He gestured vaguely toward the castle where Cedric had disappeared.

“Here you are.”

Juliet shook her head.

“I’m not defending him.”

“No?”

“I’m helping him.”

“You ran straight to him.”

“Because he was hurt!”

“So?”

She stared at him.

“So?”

“You started this!” she snapped. “What was I supposed to do? Leave him lying there?”

He didn’t answer.

“I wasn’t taking his side.”

Silence.

“I was trying to stop you.”

“You don’t get it.”

“No,” Juliet shot back. “You’re the one who doesn’t get it.”

She stepped closer.

“What you did was wrong.”

Another silence settled between them.

“You told me how he made you feel.”

“I did.”

“You told me how badly he hurt you.”

“Yes.”

“And the second he’s the one on the ground…”

His words trailed off.

“…you’re right back beside him.”

Juliet felt frustration knot in her chest.

“I would’ve done the same for anyone.”

He held her gaze.

Long enough that it made her uneasy.

“I don’t believe you.”

Her expression fell.

“What?”

“You heard me.”

Neither of them spoke.

The noise from the celebrating students suddenly felt very far away.

Then Theo laughed.

It wasn’t amused.

If anything, it sounded tired.

“The two of you…”

He shook his head once.

“You’re pathetic.”

Juliet flinched.

“You don’t understand.”

“No.”

His voice was almost flat now.

“I don’t think I do.”

She reached toward him instinctively.

“Theo—”

He stepped back before she could touch him.

“Forget it.”

“What?”

“I don’t know why I bothered.”

“Theo, wait—”

He shook his head.

“No.”

A long silence settled between them.

“You got what you wanted, Greengrass.”

Juliet frowned.

“What does that mean?”

He looked at her one last time.

For just a second, she thought he might say something else.

Instead, he simply looked away.

“I’m over this.”

Then he turned and disappeared into the crowd.

Juliet stood where she was, watching until he was gone.

since they’d started whatever this arrangement between them had become…

Splintered ⋆

Pairing: Theo Nott X Fem! Character 

Masterlist

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 : Jules spent years hating Theodore Nott. He was cruel, arrogant, and always knew exactly how to get under her skin. But in fifth year, everything changes when the two agree to a fake dating arrangement to make certain people jealous. What starts as teasing and stolen glances slowly turns into late-night conversations, lingering touches, and feelings neither of them were supposed to catch. Theodore becomes Jules’ escape from the pressure, expectations, and loneliness that follow her everywhere. But some people are destined to destroy each other no matter how hard they try to hold on.

warnings/tags: 18+ content (read responsibly!) fake dating trope, enemies to lovers , swearing, emotional constipation, sexual tension/ suggestive banter + character "glowup".

word count: 2k

notes: I'm so excited you finally got to meet Olivia , Mace & Jordin!! Thank you so much for being patient!! Also wanted to include harry more because  I just finished reading training wheels and call me crazy I was lowkey team harry but he won't be a love interest at all in this books just wanted to write something with him in it lolll anyways I hope yall enjoy

Trigger warnings will be placed before chapters when necessary.

Please read responsibly ♡

Juliet was counting stars she couldn't name when she heard the door creak open behind her.

She didn't turn. Footsteps echoed softly across the stone floor—unhurried, familiar.

"Evening," said a voice that sounded as though it wasn't entirely sure it ought to be interrupting.

Juliet smiled faintly. "Hey, Harry."

He stopped a few feet away. "Sorry. I didn't realise anyone else was up here."

"It's alright," she said, shifting slightly to make room on the ledge. "Plenty of sky to share."

Harry hesitated—just for a moment—then came over and sat beside her, leaving a politely careful amount of space between them. He leaned forward, elbows on his knees, peering up at the stars as though they might offer an explanation if he stared long enough.

"What's up?" he asked. Casual, but not careless.

Juliet shrugged. "Thinking too much."

"Ah," Harry said. "Yeah. This is a good place for that."

She huffed a quiet laugh. The wind tugged at her hair, and she tucked it behind her ear, fingers brushing the chain at her neck without thinking.

Harry noticed—but didn't comment.

They sat in companionable silence for a while. Somewhere far below, a door slammed. The castle shifted around them, alive and breathing.

"I come here when I can't sleep," Harry said eventually. "Feels like everything's... farther away."

Juliet nodded. "I like that it's quiet. Makes it harder for things to sneak up on you."

Harry glanced at her. "Things like what?"

She didn't answer straight away.

"Just... thoughts," she said at last.

He accepted that with a nod. "They're persistent, aren't they?"

"Terribly."

Another pause.

Harry adjusted his glasses, clearly working up the nerve to say something. "You alright, then? I mean—you don't have to be. I just thought I'd ask."

Juliet stared up at the stars, their light sharp and distant.

"I'm trying," she said honestly.

Harry smiled a little at that. "That usually counts for something."

She smiled back—small, grateful.

"I saw them today," she said finally.

Harry didn't ask who. He just waited.

"In the courtyard," Juliet continued quietly. "He was laughing. She was smiling. And for a second, it looked like the world hadn't ended at all." She swallowed. "Which is strange, because lately it feels like the world ends every time I see them."

Her hand tightened around the necklace at her throat.

"I hate that it hurts," she admitted. "Because it shouldn't. He deserves to be happy. She does too. And I don't—" Her voice wavered. "I don't want to be the sort of person who resents someone else's joy."

Harry shifted slightly, their knees brushing. "You're not."

Juliet let out a shaky breath. "I felt invisible. Like... like I was standing in a room that used to be mine, watching someone else live in it."

Harry looked at her then—really looked at her.

"You're allowed to feel that," he said quietly.

She shook her head. "But Cho didn't do anything wrong. She's kind. She's brilliant. And maybe—" Juliet hesitated. "Maybe with my family and all their pure-blood nonsense... maybe it was easier for him to be with her." She swallowed again. "And still—when I see them together, it feels like something's been taken from me all over again."

Harry was silent for a beat.

"Cedric's a bloody idiot for letting you go," he said at last, low and firm.

Juliet turned to him, startled.

He stared straight ahead, jaw tight. "You shouldn't tear yourself down just to make sense of it. That's not closure."

Her eyes burned.

"I feel awful," she whispered. "Because part of me wants to look away. And part of me can't stop watching."

Harry gave a small, sad smile. "That doesn't make you awful. It makes you human."

She let out a weak laugh. "You always say things like that like they're obvious."

"Only because they're easier to see from the outside," he replied.

Juliet leaned back against the stone at last, breathing properly for the first time all evening. "He used to make me feel safe," she said softly. "Like no matter how loud everything else was, I could rest."

Harry nodded.

"I miss who he used to be” she said simply.

Harry didn't try to fix it.

Didn't tell her it would get better.

Didn't rush the moment.

"I reckon he misses you too," Harry said after a while. "But you can't drive yourself mad over not getting an explanation. You're just as clever, just as brilliant—and honestly," he added, a small grin breaking through, "you're hilarious. You've been very vocal about not being anything like your family since first year. Bloody hell, Fred Weasley's your best mate."

Juliet laughed properly at that—soft, surprised.

They sat there, shoulders touching, grief shared instead of carried alone.

After a while, Harry added, "For what it's worth... he'd hate the idea of you hurting by yourself."

Juliet smiled faintly. "Yeah. He would."

Harry hesitated, then rubbed the back of his neck. "Er—speaking of things people hate thinking about..."

She glanced at him.

"I saw you and Nott at the Gryffindor party the other night," he said carefully. "How's... that going, then?"

For a moment, Juliet forgot all about the cold, the stars, the ache sitting heavy in her chest.

Theo Nott.

The thought of him felt entirely different—sharper somehow, like stepping into warmer air after the cold.

She let out a small, incredulous breath. "That's... not really a thing."

Harry raised an eyebrow. "Didn't look that way."

Juliet snorted softly. "He likes to play games."

"Yeah," Harry said dryly. "I've noticed."

She leaned back against the stone again, eyes drifting skyward. "It's harmless. Mostly."

Harry turned slightly toward her. "You don't sound convinced."

"I'm not," she admitted. "He doesn't make things quiet. He makes them louder."

Harry frowned. "That doesn't sound ideal."

"It isn't," she said. Then, after a pause, "But it's distracting."

Harry considered that for a moment. "Just... be careful, yeah?"

Juliet glanced at him, touched by the concern. "I will."

He nodded, satisfied enough for now.

They fell back into silence, the stars steady above them.

The wind shifted—cold, but gentle.

Harry stood first, offering his hand. "Come on. It's late. And if Filch catches us up here again, we'll get that lecture about 'reckless youth'."

Juliet took his hand, squeezing it once before letting go. "Thanks for listening, Chosen One."

Harry snorted. "Anytime. You don't have to be alone with it. Not with me around. Life's... heavy enough already."

As they headed back down the stairs, Juliet glanced once more at the sky.

The stars were still there.

So was the ache.

But for the first time in a long while, it felt survivable.

They headed down the spiral staircase together, their footsteps echoing softly as the tower faded behind them. The warmth of the castle crept back in, torches flickering to life along the walls as they descended.

Harry walked beside her, hands in his pockets, shoulders loose now that the weight of the conversation had eased.

"You'll be alright?" he asked quietly as they reached the corridor leading toward Gryffindor Tower.

Juliet nodded. "Yeah. Thanks for... tonight."

He shrugged. "Anytime."

They turned the corner—

And nearly collided with Cedric Diggory.

He stopped short, surprise flickering across his face before something sharper took its place. He looked tired. Irritated. Too alert for the hour.

His eyes dropped immediately—to how close Juliet and Harry were standing.

"Well," Cedric said, his tone cold. "This is cosy."

Juliet stiffened.

Harry straightened at once. "We were just heading back—"

Cedric cut him off with a sharp laugh. "Funny. I thought you preferred Slytherin these days."

Juliet's stomach dropped.

"That's not—" she started.

Cedric's gaze snapped back to her, hard and accusing. "So what is it, then? Sneaking around the corridors with him now?" His lip curled. "Or does it depend on who's watching?"

Harry took a step forward. " That's enough mate."

Cedric ignored him entirely.

"Because from where I'm standing," Cedric continued, voice low and biting, "it looks a lot like you're happy to make out with Nott at a party and then wander the castle at midnight with Potter like you're—"

"Don't," Harry said sharply.

Cedric's eyes flashed. "Like your some bloody whore."

The word hit the corridor like a slap.

Everything went very still.

Juliet felt it land somewhere deep in her chest — not loud, not explosive — just hollow.

Harry moved immediately, planting himself between them. "You do not get to speak to her like that."

Cedric scoffed. "Oh, come on. You can't seriously tell me—"

"She doesn't owe you anything," Harry snapped. "Not explanations. Not loyalty. Not whatever twisted version of control you think you're entitled to."

Juliet found her voice then — steady, cold.

"You don't get to shame me for living my life," she said. "Especially not when you walked away first."

Cedric looked at her like that hadn't occurred to him.

"I didn't—"

"You did," she cut in. "And whatever you feel about that? That's yours. Not mine."

For a moment, something flickered in his expression — guilt, maybe. Or regret.

Then it hardened.

"You've changed," he said bitterly.

Juliet laughed once — sharp and humourless. "Funny. I was thinking the same thing."

Harry glanced back at her. "You ready?"

She nodded.

They walked past Cedric without another word.

He didn't follow.