WARNING: TOXICITY, BLOOD, DEATH, MENTIONS OF PREJUDICE AND EMOTIONAL DISTRESS TO THE READERS.

𝗮/𝗻: 𝗶 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼:

𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗲. 𝗯𝘆 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗱𝗲𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝘆
𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗮 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝘆. 𝗯𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀
𝗷𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗼𝘂𝘀. 𝗯𝘆 𝗹𝗮𝗯𝘆𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗵

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

Circa June 1945:

The bubbling heat that launched across the globe fueled the ambition and cunningness of a Young Tom Marvolo Riddle.

It had been an eventful year for the dangerously persuasive wizard, between graduating from Hogwarts and asking Nova for her hand in marriage, his future had never been brighter, or in his case darker.

The couple had bought a flat in London, courtesy of the Shafiq's riches.

Nova's parents were initially cautious about her daughter being courted by someone with a half-blood background until they quickly let go of their prejudice once Tom revealed his rich lineage that dated all the back to Slytherin himself.

The newly engaged couple had already started inquiring about jobs, Tom had applied for a teaching position at Hogwarts, but unfortunately, Headmaster Armando Dippet turned him down, believing that at eighteen he was too young, causing him to rage in his study, leaving his fiancée alone most days with nothing but the comfort of her hobbies to dive into.

During those days, Nova had heard that her close friend Sapphire Zabini had begun to design clothes for the wizarding world, initially, it started as a hobby but it only grew, as did Nova's interests in fashion as well.

Most pureblood families had a unique taste in style, but Sapphire knew that she couldn't only appeal to just one demographic, as she wanted to make a success of her new business venture, with the backing of her fiancée: Septrim.

The Seramore wizard had already started looking for work in the ministry, alongside his close and most trusted friend; Abraxas Malfoy. Due to their family's status, it proved that it was rather easy for them to get employed, much to Tom's disdain, although the Riddle wizard did not dare to let his envy show, the emotion always threatened to present itself through his dark eyes.

His eyes always pulled Nova closer to him.

They were like a beacon for her. She had learnt to trust them more than the pretty words he told spoke.

He believed that green eyes had the same effect on him.

His devotion and desire for her grew each time he thought about Nova, let alone kissed or touched her. Within each argument, each handhold or comfortable silence, that's where their attachment shone brightly.

But with each light, there was a star and Tom only hoped that his Nova would never burn out, he promised himself to not allow that to happen.

He couldn't let that happen, or he would fear what he would become of himself and those around him if that day ever dared to come.

***

Wednesday, January 12th, 1946:

RIDDLE RESIDENCE:

The rain drizzled against the window pane, colliding against the glass that surrounded the apartment complex.

Nova found gloomy weather to be inviting and homey. She liked the sound of the rain, it comforted her, especially whenever she was left alone.

It had been several months since she and Tom had moved into their London flat.

Nova had added a Slytherin-style decor and created a smooth and relaxing ambience. Tom showed his appreciation, but he never seemed to be satisfied.

With a man who fed off ambition, it was hard for Nova to keep up with his expectations, she couldn't help but want everything to be perfect, not just for her, but for him too, no matter the lengths she had to go through.

A few days had passed since Nova's 19th birthday and she had begun to see the same numbers on repeat.

2, 26, 47

Since she believed in signs and symbols, she couldn't ignore the numbers that she was presented with.

It was almost like she had tunnel vision and almost struggled to think of anything else apart from the eerie numbers.

Nova suddenly turned her head when she heard the jigging of keys in the distance. She excitedly rose from the leather chair and tugged on her cardigan and hastily approached the door.

The moment Tom stepped through, his fiancée threw herself at him, snaking her arms around his neck and he instinctively wrapped his around her waist.

She had always met him this way, it brought warmth to his body, it spread through his veins and attached itself to his steadily beating heart, causing it to spike and subtly bring a small smile to his chiselled face.

"How was your day?" she asked gleefully as she pulled away, meeting his steel blue eyes.

"Tedious," he irritably replied, before pressing his lips to her forehead.

He placed his briefcase on the side table then waved his hand and the door slammed shut before them.

Before Nova could drag him over to the quaint living room, he wiped his feet on the mat, aware of how mad she would get if he tracked in dirt from the Diagon Alley.

She quirked up a brow as she gracelessly dropped onto the chair, "You haven't found any wealthy woman to sink your teeth into?"

He narrowed his eyes at her, "Don't be so crass," he was met with a pointed look, making him let out a frustrated sigh, "and no I haven't, but you needn't worry, I'll find one soon." 

Tom worked at Borgin and Burkes. He surprisingly took to the antique shop, finding its dark nature alluring and positively sinful.

"I don't doubt you will," she spoke optimistically as he sat opposite her, struggling to keep the smile off his face.

Tom informed Nova about his plans for the future and how he wanted to change the world. He initially believed she was going to leave him, after releasing how malicious and viscous his ideologies were, but she didn't.

She stayed and surprisingly helped him.

What Nova felt for Tom was far too strong for her to move on. Her infatuation had no bounds and she made sure that he knew it. But that didn't mean that she was okay with his actions, she disagreed with him, whenever she deemed it necessary and she reassured him whenever he started to lose his way.

Their relationship clearly wasn't as traditional as most, many people didn't like them together due to the colour of her skin, believing it was unjust and wrong. Nova had gotten used to ignoring other people's opinions, but what she didn't know was that Tom had tortured most of them until they couldn't remember who they were.

He may have been twisted, but he wouldn't let anyone speak badly about his Supernova.

"What have you been doing today?" he questioned and gestured to the dozens of books on the table.

"Other than edifying my mind," she grinned as he began to smirk, "I've been applying for a Curse-Breaker job at Gringotts."

His brows pinched together, "A Curse-Breaker? You've never mentioned that you wanted to be one."

"What, our constant duels and my Curse-Breaking books didn't make it obvious enough?" she huffed out a laugh and started to collect the various books on the table and pile them up.

It might've sounded odd, but on their first date, they had a duel. He might've gone soft on Nova, but that didn't been she wasn't a powerful adversary. He enjoyed it just as much as she did, therefore they did it at least once a week. Not just to keep their spirits lively, but for pleasure as well.

Tom shifted and crossed his legs, "You've never spoken about it." he wanted to roll his eyes but the glare forming in hers caused him to stop.

She pursed her lips and sat back, mirroring his position,  "Just because I don't mention everything, doesn't mean I haven't got other interests."

"I suppose so," he nodded, "But what about Zabini?"

"Sapphire has her entire family helping with her up-and-coming business and I'm only working there part-time."

"Oh."

She eyed him, "You aren't the only one with dreams Tom." she snapped.

"Tom? Are you mad at me?" his brows raised questionably.

"Im not mad I'm just frustrated." she pointed.

He snapped his eyes shut briefly, wishing that he could deeply avoid another argument.

If it was anyone else, he could easily sway them to drop the topic, however, when it came to Nova, he always fought the urge to give in to her needs.

Their arguments usually ended with her getting her way or sex and he preferred the latter.

"Why?" he pressed on, wanting to quickly resolve the matter.

"You don't seem to pay attention to me anymore."

He scoffed and shuffled closer, "I do."

"Then what are we doing tomorrow?" she waited for a response, but all he did was search his mind for the correct answer.

"Nothing it's Thursday, neither of us works on Thursday," he responded cautiously, but judging from the scowl on her face he was wrong.

"You promised last week, that we'll have dinner with my parents." she pointed out harshly, "I'm guessing you don't remember."

His eyes burned into hers, "Don't take that tone with me." he said lowly.

"I have to," she huffed, "you are constantly distracted and it makes me feel small." she bowed her head.

Her vulnerable tone, caused his malignant exterior to crack. He hated feeling like this but did welcome it as much as he could.

He never liked hurting Nova, nor did he ever intend to.

"I never intended to make you feel small."

She slowly looked up, "Then stop."

He nodded, "I will."

A smile tugged at her lips, "So what are we doing tomorrow?"

He sighed tiredly, "Having dinner with your parents."

"Good." she grinned, startling him slightly.

"Good."

She got off the chair and moved over to him, sitting on his lap and combing her hands through his hair, "Now tell me about your day, properly this time."

He inhaled her alluring and familiar scent, before starting his explanation, "This incessant woman kept trying to touch my hair."

She gasped, "So what did you do?"

"Hexed her," he said casually.

"Good boy."

"And then..."

***

RIDDLE RESIDENCE KITCHEN:

Nova was making Tom's favourite dish; lasagna.

He rarely had time to eat, as he was always too busy, but she made sure that he at least consumed two meals a day.

At Wool's orphanage, he rarely ate the food they provided, as he found the meals dull, which he couldn't tolerate in the slightest. He liked Hogwarts feasts, but Nova's cooking always satisfied him.

Nova grinned when she felt him come up from behind her, moving her hair to the side and pressing kisses to her neck, ensuring that he marked every inch of her.

Tom used to loathe physical affection. Even after the first time he was intimate with a witch, he didn't stay after, as he wanted to escape and wash away the reminiscence of her touch. Even when his 'friends' sat near him, he felt like he wanted to throw up. He didn't know why but he couldn't stand it.

Until the day he grew close to Nova. Her sweet scent captivated him and bewitched his being, something that he initially disliked as felt like he was no longer in control of his body or mind. But as time went on, he had gotten used to the feeling, even finding himself sitting next to her in some lessons, then occasionally letting his hands graze hers, to the point that even letting their knees touch brought him solace.

His heart swelled whenever he stared into her eyes and his throat turned dry whenever she laughed at his snide comments. He never knew what it meant, but all he could understand was that he needed to be close to her... always.

"Why do you constantly leave marks all over me?" she wondered and continued to stir the roux sauce.

"To show everyone who you belong to," he said darkly, causing a pink hue to kiss her russet-coloured cheeks.

She let out a breathy sigh, "I can't keep going into work like this, Saphh will get suspicious." Then she tilted her head to the side, to allow him to keep up his passionate artwork.

He scoffed, "It's none of her business what we do," he pulled away momentarily, making her snap her head towards him, "Besides... who do you love?" he asked squinting his eyes down at her.

"You." she instantly replied.

"Precisely, so focus on that."

He immediately went back to kissing her skin and trailing his hands down her waist, distracting her from her cooking.

She cleared her throat and pulled away from him, emitting a groan from the wizard.

He stared down at her expectantly when she shot him a glance.

"Kaya told me something yesterday," she exclaimed.

He rolled his eyes at the mention of the Selwyn witch, he never liked her and never will. He found her to be overbearing and a duplicitous bitch, another thing that he had Septrim had in common.

Although they all engaged in some afternoon activities years ago, he still held some disdain for the witch.

"What?" he reluctantly questioned.

"About my name, how it means 'new star'."

"What an original concept." he drawled.

"Tom." she scolded, shooting him a glare, although he was unaffected by it, he continued to indulge in the conversation.

"Carry on."

"She said that all stars will burn out," she murmured.

"Why the hell would she say that?" he snapped, then he turned off the stove and spun Nova around, settling his hands on her waist and pulling her closer.

Nova caught the anger simmering in his dark eyes and she had seen this particular look many times.

She gulped, "Well, Sapphire and I were talking about our relationships and she grew annoyed."

"She's bitter." he gritted out.

"She's still my friend." she went to smack his chest, but he caught her hand and interlinked their fingers. She smiled softly at the action, before she stare up at him, her eyes widened at the wicked smile on his face, "why are you smiling like that?"

"Would you miss her if she died?"

"You aren't killing her."

He scoffed, "I never said anything about murder... torture is on the table."

"Take it off the table."

"No."

"Yes."

"I can't do that I'm afraid." Tom shrugged as his dangerous mind conjured up the many ways to control Kaya.

Nova rolled her eyes, "...fine."

"Your star won't burn out Nova. You know that" Tom reassured his fiancée. He would do anything to prevent that from happening.

Nova smiled up at him, "Neither will ours."

His brow quirked up, "What do you mean?"

"Because we're in love," she exclaimed and turned away, missing the way he tensed.

"Right."

Love was something he couldn't feel, no matter how much he desired to. He always knew that he was different, that he was wired wrong.

However, Nova was the closest thing he had to that intense emotion.

Tom swallowed harshly, "...Our star will never burn out."

***

Friday, March 14th, 1946:

TOM'S STUDY:

Once Tom found out about the recurring numbers that Nova had been seeing he decided to help her, believing it had a link to divination. Although he was never fond of that particular lesson during his Hogwarts years, he did take it seriously, especially when it came to his future and what might it hold.

On the subject of fate, Sapphire was having trouble coming to terms with her fiancée's past and his many escapades throughout his school years.  The Zabini witch of course knew about his history with Nova, something that she wasn't bothered about as the Shafiq witch came clean about it a few months ago, but that wasn't how she found out about the many other instances.

Septrim even wrote to Tom about whether or not Nova told Sapphire about his past and even when the Riddle wizard reassured him that it wasn't his fiancée, he still wasn't sure and he decided to drop it... until today.

Tom had been writing to his equal throughout the entire day, their owls had been panting each time they arrived at their windows.

Tom still had many grievances with Septrim regarding his past with Nova, but he couldn't do anything about it. He supposed the Seramore wizard slept with her out of spite, something that Septrim didn't necessarily deny, much to his disdain. But as for now, Tom didn't care about the problems he and Sapphire were having, he believed it was deserved and that Septrim needed to be taken down a few pegs, especially since he couldn't be the one to do it.

Tom barely glanced up when he heard a knock on the door.

"Come in," he inhaled when his senses were engulfed with a familiar sweet smell, "darling." he shot her a sly smirk, but it soon dropped when he noticed her worried expression, "What's wrong?"

He ushered her to shut the door and come over to him, which she did rather quickly.

She ended up being perched on his desk. His hand crawled up her thigh until she slapped it away.

"Do I make you happy?" She blurted out, startling him.

His brows pinched together at the question, "Do I make you happy?" He rebutted.

"Yes," she vigorously nodded, "all the time." She added.

Hopelessly devoted was how she described her feelings towards Tom.

He sighed in satisfaction, "Good."

"So do I make you happy?" She asked again.

He hummed, "Quite."

She narrowed her eyes at him, "Only quite?" Recoiling in her position and moved to stand up but he pulled her down.

Tom pinched the bridge of his nose, "You make me happy Nov, where is this coming from?"

"I was thinking about how we haven't had a date in a while." She breathed out.

He stared at her in disbelief, "It's been 2 days."

She nodded, mainly to herself, "A while."

"2 days isn't a-"

"I was hoping we could do something different this time." A smile tugged at her lips.

"I'm all ears." He held his hands out, awaiting her proposition.

"Maybe we should do something more permanent."

"Permanent?" He repeated in confusion.

"To represent our love."

"Does the ring on your finger not satisfy you?" He nodded to the replica of the Gaunt ring he had made for her, which rested on her finger.

He knew when he decided to propose to her, that he wanted to give her his family heirloom, but since he had made it into a Horcrux a few years ago, he chose to replicate the design so they were matching instead.

Throughout their flat, the Gaunt, as well as the Shafiq family crest, was represented. Even though Tom had a say in the matter, he didn't oppose Nova's choices on interior design.

Nova glanced down at her ring, smiling when she recalled the day of the proposal, "It does, but I want something more permanent."

"Speak plainly," he demanded, finding the interaction very tiresome.

She sucked in a deep breathe, before speaking, "Perhaps we should get tattoos of our-"

"A tattoo?" he let out a humourless laugh, which made her smile falter.

"Yes?" she didn't mean for it to sound like a question, but his harsh tone caught her off guard.

He scoffed bitterly, "We aren't low-class Nova."

"I know-"

He tauntingly tilted his head to the side, "Do you?"

"I thought it would be nice."

"We have a reputation to uphold," he rose on his feet, startling her, "you really think I would do something like that?"

She shuffled back, "All of you followers have the dark-"

"That's different," he snarled, shaking his head at her, "that sends a message, a symbol," he took a step towards her, "and what would a tattoo represent?"

She glared up at him, "our relationship and-."

"Why on earth would you suggest such a ghastly thing?" he hissed at her.

She huffed, "It was just an idea." she mumbled.

"A foolish one," he yelled and finally, the tears pooling in her eyes, streamed down her cheeks.

His eyes widened when he realised what he had done.

Usually whenever he made someone cry it never affected him. Emotions rarely did.

However, seeing how torn up Nova was, ruptured his heart.

"You don't have to be so cruel." she croaked out and attempted to wipe away her tears, but they kept on falling.

"I-"

When he moved closer, she shuffled away, not wanting to be near him, "Forget that I even suggested it Tom." she quickly exited the study and slammed the door shut, making him tense and grit his teeth.

She never called him Tom.

Only when she was angry, which was rare, so she tended to be irritated or annoyed, but rarely angry.

Tom ran his hands over his face before he continued to stare at the door, hoping she would come back.

But as the sun faded and the stars harshly blinked in the night sky, he knew had to make amends.

***

Tom panicked when he didn't find Nova in their bedroom, the sheets were tucked into the corners and the pillows were untouched. He knew every time she slept she moved most of them, believing that his chest was the best pillow. Although he found it irksome, he had grown accustomed to it.

He let out an annoyed sigh as he moved around their flat, speedily opening each door, checking the rooms, huffing whenever he didn't catch her alluring scent.

He knew she didn't leave the flat or the keys would've been taken.

He almost lost control of his anger, but when he saw the door to the spare room was cracked open, he hastily pushed it open.

He let out a sigh of relief when he saw her cooped up in the bed, sleeping lightly as dry tears stained her russet-coloured skin. She adorned a silk scarf to protect her relaxed hair, despite a few strands escaping its hold.

Tom tried to ignore the guilt seeping through his veins, but it was impossible.

As his eyes raked over her face, he was blinded by her beauty and he would never forget it.

Nova Shafiq was his and always will be. Mind, body and soul.

So Tom quietly slipped off his slippers and slid next to her, turning off the light and bringing her to his chest as he ran his hand over her back.

He knew she was slowly waking up, so he spoke softly to not startle her, "If it makes you happy my darling, we can go through with your date idea."

She fearfully looked up at him, worried that he would snap again, "Are you sure?" her strained voice only caused him pain.

He sighed, "Yes, I'm sure."

"Thank you."

"You'll get the initials: N.R. as those will be your initials when we get married." he breathed out quickly.

She smiled to herself and let the butterflies take flight in her stomach, "Alright."

"Good."

"I love you, Tom," she mumbled sleepily into his chest and let him squeeze her sides 3 times showcasing his feelings, leaving her satisfied and content, before they both drifted to sleep.

***

Wednesday, October 19th 1946:

RIDDLE RESIDENCE BATHROOM:

Nova had been feeling under the weather for a few days and a rather eager Tom took care of her, even disregarding his work as he wanted to make sure she was okay.

Tom had to reschedule recruiting death eaters, whilst Nova had to take a few days off work after recently becoming a Curse-Breaker at Gringotts.

When she had been employed, to say Tom and her family were proud was an understatement, after all, becoming a Curse-Breaker was a rigorous and very complex process. However, it was easier than she expected as she had already gained many qualifications from her school years, having earned one NEWT's in each subject: Charms, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Potions, Transfigurations, Ancient Runes, Arithmancy, and Cursebreaking. Initially, she believe that it wouldn't be enough, but when she received a letter a few weeks ago she was incredibly proud of herself.

"It must've been something I ate," Nova spoke after moving away from the toilet and wiping her mouth.

Tom had rushed into their bathroom when he heard the retching noises from his study. Each day he had been pulling her hair back whenever she threw up every meal she consumed.

"I highly doubt that," he presented her with her toothbrush and toothpaste, to which she accepted quickly and began to brush her teeth, "you've been in this state for almost a week and you've never been this ill before."

She spat into the sink, "it'll pass." she mumbled and went to brush her tongue.

Tom shook his head, wearing an expression that she was unsure of. To her, he seemed rather satisfied and borderline happy but she couldn't understand why.

"We'll see," he pressed a kiss to her hair, then left the room to go back to his work.

"I guess we will," she muttered under her breath, eyeing her stomach suspiciously, before shaking away her thoughts and inhaling sharply, telling herself that it will all be okay in the end.

***

Sunday, December 18th, 1946:

TOM'S STUDY:

"Tommy," Nova breathed out after slamming his study door open.

Her urgent tone forced his gaze to meet hers and he immediately sat up in his chair.

"Yes?"

She gulped and rushed over to him, "I'm late."

He pretended to blink back his shock at her proclamation, "For?"

"My period, I'm late." she unintentionally snapped at him as she took a seat on her usual spot on his desk.

He shrugged and started to play with the ring that rested on her finger, "By a few days?" he asked casually, not sounding bothered in the slightest, which ultimately confused Nova.

"2 months," she replied cautiously, then placed a hand on her stomach, drawing his attention to it.

"What?" he forced himself to sound as shocked as possible as, after all, he wanted this to happen.

Ever since his discussion with Septrim that took place during his 16th birthday celebration, Tom had been wanting, no, needing to have an heir, to continue his bloodline, even if he detested the fact that it was polluted with muggle blood. He had been planning this for a while, he had carelessly forgotten to use the contraception charm a few weeks ago, as an experiment and his fiancée didn't notice, but ultimately they had been too wrapped up in each other's presence to care.

She wiped her hands down her face, "We must've forgotten to use the contraception spell or something and-"

"We should keep it." he cut her off and his words startled her.

"What?" she breathed out after a few seconds.

Never would she have thought that he would want this.

"We should keep it. The child, Do you want to?" he raised his brow, waiting for her answer, not wanting to sound like he was pressuring her.

She scrunched up her face in confusion, before instinctively placing her hand back to her stomach, "Do you not think we're too young? I didn't even know that you wanted children."

"I want to marry you, is that reason, not enough?"

She smiled softly down at him, "I suppose so." she murmured, still unsure about her decision, "but every time we've discussed children-"

"I tend to avoid it because of my upbringing." he half lied, then gave her a tip-lipped smile.

"Oh," she whispered.

"Being around those ghastly children in the orphanage made me change," he carried on with his half lies, "it turned me into something different, cold and ultimately ostracised me from my peers, that was of course until I came to Hogwarts and found where I truly belonged, where I found you," he stood up and towered over her.

He placed a hand on her stomach and pushed away any of the nerves he felt about becoming a father, as his forehead rested on hers.

"Are you sure you want this?" she asked softly, attempting to regain composure after hearing his soft words.

"Yes." he smiled down at her, "is this something you want Nov, because-"

"I do want to have this baby, with you," she reassured him.

He pulled away from her to stare into her green eyes, which he always seemed to get enticed by, "I don't want to pressure you."

"I want this," she repeated and he slowly started to grin.

"Good," he moved his gaze to her stomach once more.

"Our little family," she whispered.

Nova had always wanted a big family, due to being an only child, surrounded by adults. She just didn't believe that it would happen so quickly, but she had to be prepared to protect her baby at all times.

She also hoped that she would figure out the meaning behind the numbers she kept seeing before she gave birth.

Her mind already started bubbling with thoughts about the appearance of their child, its personality, its interests, its gender-

"Our little family," Tom repeated quietly, pulling her out of her thoughts.

It was one more person he had to protect, not that he minded, especially with his army of followers growing each day. His eyes glossed over at the thought of meeting his child, but then it hit him, was it a boy or a-

"I wish we could find out the gender."

"Darling, there are spells for that," she chuckled at his perplexed expression.

"And how come I've never heard of one?"

"Because it's women's business," she stated bluntly.

"I suppose," he murmured.

Tom watched as she mumbled something under her breath.

"If it's blue it's a boy and if it's pink it's a girl."

"Yes but how-" he cut off himself when her stomach began to glow, his breath got caught in his throat when the pale tint of blue glossed over her.

"It's a boy-" before Nova could finish her sentence, Tom lifted her and spun her around, emitting a squeal from the witch.

She laughed when he placed her back on the ground, he mirrored her excitement.

"A baby boy," she whispered and a small tear trickled down her face, she was even taken back when he appeared to be crying as well.

Something that she had never seen before, but he was too overcome with emotion to suppress them.

"A son," he whispered and placed his hands back on her stomach, he felt a huge sense of pride.

They were having a son.

They were on cloud nine and they only hoped nothing would pull them off it.

***

Tuesday, February 26th, 1947:

RIDDLE RESIDENCE LIVING ROOM:

Today is Septrim's birthday and boy he didn't let anyone forget, especially Tom.

The birthday boy was hosting his celebration at the Seramore manor, with many of his friends and acquaintances in attendance. It was his 20th birthday, however, that wasn't the only milestone that was being celebrated.

Nova had just entered her 2nd trimester, as she was 4 months pregnant.

Surprisingly Tom made sure she visited a trusted Mediwitch every few weeks, just to be sure that she and the baby were doing well.

Unfortunately the only mediwitch he knew as well as controlled was Kaya, much to his disdain, but he had threatened her with the cruciatus curse so she wouldn't speak a word of their pregnancy. The only other people who knew about their great news were Septrim, Sapphire and Abraxas. The Malfoy wizard was only allowed to know, due to him being loyal to Septrim.

Tom had notified them all through letters, he even placed a hex on them, and if they got into the wrong hands, it would ultimately leave burn marks on the individual that opened them.

He wasn't risking a thing.

"Darling, come here," Nova called out, sitting down on the leather couch and smiling down at her bump, which was much more prominent.

Fortunately, many of the goblins she worked alongside didn't notice her pregnancy, due to her wearing thick layers during her working hours.

"Yes," Tom paced into their living room after finishing the breakfast that she prepared for him earlier.

He was dressed in his work attire and Nova adorned it. She loved whenever he wore an all-black suit with his hair styled back, with a few curls escaping, due to his fiancée playing and pulling on it a few minutes prior.

"What's wrong?" he stepped into the room with another letter he received from Septrim.

The birthday boy had been complaining about how Sapphire had received bad news from Kaya about his past. Which informed both of the wizards that they couldn't trust her as they believed her to be too spiteful. Tom already started making plans to erase the pregnancy from Selwyn witch's mind, before taking Nova to see a new mediwitch.

The sound of his voice brought another small kick against her stomach, causing her smile to broaden.

"He kicked me," she announced making him frown and place the letter on the mantlepiece, before approaching her.

"He's hurt you?" he narrowed his eyes at her stomach.

She was quick to shake her head, noticing the anger circling in his eyes, "No, he's kicking," she placed his hand to her stomach "feel."

His eyes widened with only what she could describe as fear before it was hastily replaced with amusement.

A smile tugged at his lips at the feeling, his body warmed with joy.

His son recognised his voice, "Is this normal?" he asked, and she could hear the vulnerability clinging to his tone.

Yes, he was nervous about the idea of having a child and even though it might've been strategic, he still wanted this. He might not be able to shower the child with love, but that did not mean he wouldn't protect or care for it.

Nova nodded slowly, "Very normal. My mother said I was the same." she said softly as he kneeled before her, causing her heart to flutter.

She wished she could capture this moment, but she chose to live in it instead.

"My mother died giving birth to me," he responded bluntly, taking her back slightly.

"Sorry to-"

"Don't apologise. She means nothing to me." he shook his head and gently rubbed her bump.

He never wanted to think about his mother. He believed her to be weak, especially since she chose to be with a muggle, instead of a pureblood, going against his grandfather and their family beliefs. Subconsciously Tom blamed the rest of the Gaunts for not having more control over his mother or he wouldn't be cursed with having a half-blood status. Therefore when Tom killed his grandfather and placed the blame on his uncle, he was getting revenge, not just for him, but for his family too.

"And what about me?" Nova asked quietly.

He stared at her in disbelief, "What a foolish question. You and our child mean the world to me." He blurted out without even thinking.

She grinned and looked down at her bump, "I can't wait to meet him."

"Only 5 months to go," he mumbled, trying to bask his excitement with boredom, but she could hear it regardless.

Nova knew tom, she saw him in a different light than how other people did. She acknowledged his vicious and machiavellian traits and chose to embrace them all. Like she was drawn to them.

She knew he could see the darkness in her light facade, he adored her even more because of it.

Nova sighed at the feeling of his hand movements on her stomach, "I was thinking of middle names-"

Tom cringed at the thought, "Must he have one?"

She gave him a pointed look, "Yes, he's going to be our firstborn. He deserves one."

He couldn't disagree, "What do you suggest?" he questioned, also trying to think of a few.

"Tom?" she teased.

He scoffed, "No."

"But I love your name." she pecked his lips a few times, until he gave in, and kissed back with just as much passion, before pulling away.

"The way you scream it every other night proves that my darling," a smirk grew on his face as she became flustered. She smacked his chest, getting a small laugh from him.

Her hormones had been all over the place, rendering Tom confused and useless for the first time in his life. He never knew he could be yelled at for just breathing, but he honestly tried to not yell back. Until one day he grew tired of her complaints and decided it was best to use sex to put her to sleep.

And ever since then, they had been intimate every day, sometimes even a couple of times a day. Fortunately, he had alot of stamina to feed his fiancée's libido.

"Say another suggestion."

Nova cocked her head to the side, "Marvolo?"

"I want it to be original Nov." he got off the ground, whilst simultaneously pulling her onto his lap.

"You didn't even want one until a few minutes ago," she whined.

"We'll know I do."

She rolled her eyes, "Fine what about... Septrim." she laughed at the horror that flashed across his eyes.

"Absolutely not."

"I'm kidding." she continued to chuckle until he pinched her sides.

"Better be." he scoffed, then started to think, "His middle should be related to a star," Tom continued to rub her stomach, loving the feeling of his son kicking.

She smiled down at him, "Because of me?"

He mirrored her expression, "Yes."

"What about... Itri?" She noticed his perplexed expression and started to explain, "it means star and it derives from Tamazight, a Berber language that's indigenous to north Africa and spoken throughout Morocco," she paused, "and you know my family-"

"Originate from North Africa, I'm aware."

"And I know many people nowadays don't like unique names but this is our baby," she murmured and they both stared down at the bump.

People publicly spoke of their distaste for anything different, whether it was, style culture or race, but the couple wanted their child's name to stand out, just like they did whenever they stepped into the public eye.

Nova shrugged, "I just thought it was cute."

"I don't hate the name."

"Apollo Itri Riddle," she grinned.

"Apollo Itri Riddle," he repeated in satisfaction.

She squealed in delight and Tom couldn't help but wrap his arms around her, lifting her, spinning her around and pressing his lips to hers.

The feeling of glee bounced between them both, entrancing their bodies, souls and minds.

They were elated, everything was coming together. All they had to do was wait for their wedding which was taking place in June. They had planned the day before they had gotten pregnant and because the Shafiqs were paying for it all, they didn't want to move it. Not like the couple could blame them as they were unaware of Nova's due date which was the month after.

But since they wanted to get married as soon as possible, they didn't bother changing it.

When the couple pulled away, Tom stared at her with devotion and tenderness, he didn't want to look away.

Hell, he didn't even want to go to work. He felt wrong for leaving her, especially as she took the day off to prepare for their friends' party.

Nova snaked her arms around Tom's waist as he placed his around her shoulders, "Hurry home, It's Septrims party today."

"And he won't let me forget it."

"He's your best friend." she pointed out.

He almost gagged at the thought, "No, he's not."

"He is." she gave him a stern look.

Tom thought about his relationship with Septrim and how the birthday boy was the closest thing he had to a brother.

Tom nodded stiffly at his fiancée, before pressing a kiss to her cheek.

"Hurry home please."

"I will."

He cupped her face and pulled her in for a loving kiss, gently rubbing his thumbs over her cheeks whilst she clutched onto his blazer as tight as possible.

They always parted like this, holding one another tightly, pouring as much emotion into their goodbyes, so they always knew there would be hello to come home to.

But there was something different about this time, they really didn't want to let go.

They just wanted to stand there as their bodies would soon become one, just like their souls that were dancing with each other in amongst the fiery passion that was called Tom and Nova.

"I love you, Tommy."

He didn't even tense this time when she confessed her love, he just smiled.

"You too, My Supernova."

***

It had been a few hours since Tom had left for work and he would be back been soon.

Nova had preoccupied her time with cleaning up the flat as her house elf was at her parent's manor.

She couldn't stand disorder, despite the flat being clean, she still felt like something was wrong, therefore she hadn't even begun to get ready for the upcoming party.

She nervously fiddled with her ring as she gently dusted the mantelpiece, smiling at the various pictures of her and Tom. She couldn't believe that they had been together for so long, it had felt like a dream, especially with the little life growing inside of her.

Their little family.

Nova hopelessly doted on each frame, even the empty one that Tom had placed there for their child.

But her smile quickly fell as she looked upon the calendar that was hanging near the mantlepiece.

A chill went down her spine when she looked at the date.

She really focused on each number.

2, 26, 46

February 26th, 1946.

Why had she been seeing the same three numbers and what was so important about today, other than it being her friend's birthday? Why had she been tormented with these numbers? Was it a daft prank?

Even when she and Tom had tried figuring out what they had meant they thought it was for the best to put any worries aside so she didn't become too stressed, but that all went out the window when she continued to stare at the calendar.

But the sound of knocking snapped her out of her worried thoughts.

She intuitively placed a hand on her stomach and cautiously approached the front door.

In her mind, Tom must've forgotten his keys, but that has never happened before.

When she pulled the door open she is met with the face of someone she had not seen in years.

"Professor Dumbledore?" she narrowed her eyes at the man who stood near the threshold with a gently smile.

His grey hair was shoulder length, and his suit was cut perfectly, although it seemed slightly dated. He wasn't wearing his glasses but his eyes shone with glee, or at least that's what she perceived it to be.

"Nova, it's great to see you," he nodded at her, although she didn't reciprocate his joyous tone, "May I come in?"

She shook her head, "I'm heading out soon and Tom will be back." she added for good measure.

"It will only take a minute." he pressed on, his gaze dropped to her hand placement briefly, then locked onto her eyes.

She gulped nervously, "O-okay."

As she moved aside for him to come through, she caught the gnarly burn mark that covered his hand.

"What happened to your hand?" she asked after shutting the door and turning to him.

She noticed a small panic flash through his eyes.

"Dealing with dragons," he informed her, still adoring a wide smile, that didn't meet his eyes.

She almost scoffed, immediately not believing the wizard. She hadn't seen him in years and suddenly he had arrived on her doorstep.

She only hoped that Tom would come back soon, or at least Dumbledore would quickly leave.

"Surely you would have a bigger scar."

"It was a small dragon." he laughed and took in the calm atmosphere of the flat. The aroma was sweet and fresh.

Everywhere seemed to be homely and comforting, he couldn't believe Tom Riddle lived here at all, it was far too mundane.

"Why are you here?" she asked, tugging on a loosely fitted cardigan that she had taken from Tom's side of the wardrobe.

Wearing each other's clothes whenever the other wasn't present was the norm for the young couple. It brought comfort and serenity to their cunning minds.

She needed Tom to hurry back.

"I was hoping to talk to you," he spoke, standing with his back to the mantlepiece as she stood a few steps in front of him.

The sounds of the softly cracking fire brought her some sort of escape. Fire always reminded her relationship with Tom. She was a star; a big ball of fire, that he kept close to his heart, embracing and using the light to spread across the world.

His world.

She stared at Dumbledore with an apprehensive expression, "Could this not wait? I have been awfully busy and I have work to get back to," she half lied.

He clapped excitedly, startling her, "I'm aware of you and Miss Zabini's recent endeavours. I'm amazed."

"Wait-"

"And you're new career as a Curse-Breaker," he added, making her suspicions rise.

Nova couldn't shake off the nervous feeling and snaked her hand onto her stomach, her baby kicked at the sound of the new voice, but the kicks seemed to be harsher than before, almost like a warning.

She grew tenser, "Thank you bu-"

"And I also hear that you are with child," he announced, clasping his hands together and pointing them toward her bump.

Suddenly Nova's entire body grew cold.

"How?" she took a small step back, keeping her eyes solely on the wizard.

"The wizarding world is always buzzing with information and excitement, it was only a matter of time before it was out in the open you see," he informed, but she wasn't convinced in the slightest.

Dumbeldore had already discovered about her pregnancy from capturing a few of the letters that had been exchanged between the group of Slytherin friends. Initially, he was sceptical, but after it persuading a certain mediwitch, his suspicions were confirmed.

"I sincerely doubt that, I'm not exactly white you see." she pointed out, knowing that the wizarding world wasn't kind, especially towards people like her.

But that wasn't all that worried her. Her mind was swarming, how could he have known about her child? Barely anyone knew.

Someone must have betrayed them, but who? Nova couldn't calm her thoughts.

Dumbeldore hummed, "Prejudice is a treacherous thing."

"It is." she hastily agreed, "but what is that you wanted to talk about professor?" her eyes darted across the room, in search of her wand but where was it?

She hope it wasn't in their room. She had been distracted to grab her wand. What kind of mother would forget their wand?

Nova had to force herself to not think negatively, but it was proving to be too hard.

She rarely used wand-less magic so what could she do now?

"The family you are building." Dumbledore wandered past the mantle and picked up the motion pictures that Nova and Tom had taken ever since they had started courting.

His eyes settled on the letter placed near there, he caught the familiar handwriting but didn't pick it up just yet.

Nova's face turned stoic, "What about us?"

He turned back to her with a soft smile, although she didn't trust it, "Do you think you're ready to be a mother?" he asked and clasped his hands behind his back.

"Of course," she replied without hesitation.

She didn't like what he might've been insinuating, Nova believe that she was going to be the best mother to her child and months of encouragement from not only Tom, but Septrim, Sapphire and Abraxas helped as well.

"Are you sure my dear?" he asked, tilting his head to the side.

"Yes I am and I would also like you to leave." she snapped and gestured to the door.

Dumbledore raised his hands, he softly shook his head, "I don't mean to offend-"

"You have, I'll be the best mother to my child, regardless of what people think of me."

He feigned curiosity, "Even with someone as Tom as the father?"

"I don't appreciate your candour Professor, please leave." she snarled but refused to take a step closer to the man.

She senselessly played with the ring on her finger, an action that Dumbledore caught.

"I'm afraid I can't do that Nova, not with the situation you are in."

His tone sounded more condescending than conforming.

She took another step back, "What do you mean?"

"You see, you're pregnant with the child of someone who I believe has done terrible things and will go on to do even more terrible things."

Tom was always someone he had to keep his eyes on, especially when he first met the orphan and invited him to attend Hogwarts; a decision he had regretted deeply.

His opinion about the wizard had only worsened when Septrim Seramore came into the mix and the two become friends, much to Dumebldore's disdain. Their friendship always inspired dread whenever he saw the pair consorting.

He had to put an end to it, but not just that, the future of the Slytherin bloodline.

For the future of the wizarding world.

"He hasn't and he won't," she lied, "he'll be the best father and a great man."

Dumbledore's exhaled through his pursed lips. He now believed that she was truly lost and there was no way of convincing her otherwise.

He blamed Tom and his manipulative ways, for harming the young and innocent witch.

He had to be the one to put her out of her misery.

Dumbledore sighed and subtly gripped his wand, "I'm so sorry Nova," his words caused her to take another step back, "You were never meant to be a part of this."

"Of what-"

"Crucio."

Her eyes widened and tried to move out of the way but it was too late, her body was already writhing with excruciating pain.

"Ahh stop!" she shrieked as she fell onto the floor and her back merely scraped the side of the table.

She attempted to shift but the curse was too strong, she could barely move her hand.

"Please stop!" she clutched onto her stomach as she pleaded with the anxious-looking wizard.

But he couldn't stop, he had to rid her body of the child, the heir of Slytherin. He had to make sure that no more heirs could be produced.

That the likelihood of Tom having more children was low.

Agony-filled screams spread throughout the room, Nova didn't even feel the blood trickling down her thigh until her blurred vision caught her crimson-stained legs.

It wouldn't stop flowing.

But Nova mustered up the strength to soothe her stomach, even though she could no longer feel her son kick anymore.

Dumbledore continued to inflict pain on the witch, "I can't do that I'm afraid."

"You're killing my baby." she cried out, trying to shuffle away from him as he came closer.

"It's for you're own good. I'm terribly sorry."

Nova's back collided with the wall, her body trembled and her hand kept clutching onto the swell of her stomach, as she muttered a teary apology to her child.

Her son.

She blocked out the sound of torture and the blood pooling around her. She knew that she was going to die just like her child.

Her beautiful boy.

Images that surrounded the decorated room flashed before her eyes and she had no choice but to take them in as the pain was too much.

Everyone she had loved and cared for exploded into her vision and smiled down at her. Her parents, friends, and even her unborn child.

And then lastly, the love of her life.

Tom Marvolo Riddle.

She didn't want to leave him, but she was burning out, leaving him with nothing but darkness and she had only one person to blame.

"He'll come for you." she breathed out her last words, inspiring fear within Dumbledore.

The Professor swallowed the knot that formed in his throat and lowered his wand.

He took one last look at the bloodied scene before dropping Septrim's near her body and took a haste escape.

***

Tom apparated outside their home after being notified that something was wrong with his fiancée due to him placing a charm on the ring he had given her.

His body grew cold when he noticed that the front door was left ajar.

The faint smell of copper drifted up his nostrils, causing tightness in his stomach.

He pushed the door open and was immediately alerted to the stream of blood that trailed into the living room. He dropped his briefcase and wordlessly shut the door.

Fear curled around his heart like a noose.

With each step she took, the more stiff his body became.

All of a sudden, it felt like all the air had been sucked out of the room when he spotted his fiancée, surrounded by a pile of blood, unmoving and face void of any emotion apart from fear.

He rushed over to Nova.

"Nov?" He shook her body, waiting for her to wake up, "This isn't funny Nova," his lip quivered in anger.

He kept saying her name, but his voice began to break as his heart shattered in two.

Reality washed over him and slapped him in the face.

"Open your eyes," he urged her and cradled her face, "Open those pretty green eyes for me," he pleaded and kept shaking her bloodied body.

He needed to hear her voice, her beautiful voice.

"No, no, no," it was like his throat became raw and was slashed open, "Please."

He gripped her hand and twisted her engagement ring, hoping that she would start playing with it, as she always did.

But she didn't move.

"No!" his hands trembled as he patted her face, "You said our star wouldn't burn out Nova!" he yelled out, "You lied to me." why won't she open her eyes? "You're a liar," he kept shaking her body, "wake up please."

Tom's gaze moved down to her stomach, her prominent pump.

"Apollo," he whispered and waited to feel a kick, a movement... something.

But he didn't feel his child kick.

"My beautiful boy," bile rushed up Tom's throat and he turned away, bringing up the emotion and grief that overtook his body.

He coughed as tears pooled in his eyes.

Tom didn't stop shaking his love, then let out a pained scream of desperation, bringing her slumped body into his chest and clawing at her for help.

Blood continued to soak his clothes, her blood seeped through and stained his flesh.

He let out more wails, overcome with mourning and anger. Not only had he lost his fiancée, but his son also.

An innocent baby, whose only crime is sharing the same name as him.

He wept over her body for a time, he couldn't say how long. Tom refused to leave them, he had made that mistake before and he wouldn't do it again.

His mind was rampant, whilst his body remained still.

He stared out into nothing.

The cruel hands of the clock ticked behind him, reminding him that time would never stop, only move forward and that it wouldn't wait for anyone.

Not even the sweetest of hearts. His love.

His Supernova.

She burnt out... not only taking his heart but their child also.

His Apollo. The future that they would've created.

Tom didn't know what to do. For once in his calculated life, he didn't know what to do.

Until his eyes settled on a familiar and bloodied letter...

***

Wednesday, February, 27th, 1947:

SERAMORE MANOR:

Septrim was concerned, all of his guests had left and Tom and Nova hadn't shown up.

He at least expected a letter from either of them.

It put a slight damper on his day.

Sapphire had already gone to sleep, Abraxas had left a few moments before, leaving the birthday...belated birthday boy in his nightwear, sitting by in the living room, accompanied by a small glass of gin.

His wand didn't sit far from him, as he stared into the lively fireplace and listened to the crackling, letting it soothe his loud and busy mind.

He was worried, he had never been this worried in his life, not even a gentle kiss from his fiancée would soothe him because his nerves were jolting every part of him to stay on guard.

No matter how many sips of alcohol he consumed, it didn't help.

He jumped when he heard shattering come from her foyer, making him hastily grab his wand and gently placed his drink down and slowly rose.

He walked slowly and apprehensively. His heart hammered against his chest.

Septrim's jaw dropped at the sight of his blood-covered friend.

Tom stood in the middle of the foyer, with a horrified and broken expression.

He was clutching onto something Septrim couldn't see, inspiring more fear in the Seramore's eyes.

Tom went to speak, but only sobs escaped his lips before his knees gave out and he dropped onto the floor.

Septrim rushed over to him and pulled him against his chest, "I'm here, it's okay-"

"It's not okay, she's dead, she's left me!" he screamed.

Realisation washed over Septrim, his eyes glossed over, "N-nova?"

And when Tom started sobbing all over again he knew his answer.

"She's gone, my son is gone," Tom croaked out, and hit Septrim's chest, "she was already dead when I came home."

He couldn't get the sight out of his head, he almost never wanted to change his clothes as if was the only way she would stay with him. Always covered in her blood was the only way he could deal with her absence, it made sense in Tom's mind.

"I'm sorry."

Tom thrashed around in his friend's hold, not caring about how it looked, he just needed to be held, especially when he couldn't be held by his Nova anymore.

His supernova.

"I found your letter by her body." his broken words stunned Septrim.

The dark-skinned boy cupped his friend's tear-stained cheeks, "What? Why would-"

Tom shook his head, "I know it wasn't you." he let the bloodied letter drop next to them.

Septrim didn't bother to glance at it, keeping his teary eyes on his friends, "Then who?"

"We both know who," Tom muttered bitterly as he stood up, taking him by surprise.

Septrim rose, "Tommy-"

"They're both gone." Tom's voice was cold and his face was void of any emotion.

As far as he was concerned, the only thing that kept his heart beating was his lust for revenge, not for him, but for his-

"I'm not going to see you for a while am I?" Septrim dared to ask, watching the inner torment in Tom's eyes.

"No."

Tom looked at Septrim one last time before he reluctantly turned away.

"Wait-"

"Goodbye Ghost," Tom muttered.

Septrim sucked in a deep breath before he said, "Goodbye, Tommy."

A single tear coated Septrim's cheek as he watched the man he once knew walk away, leaving nothing but a trail of blood in his wake.

Nothing would ever be the same again.

***

a/n:

i need a tiktok break. my eyes are sore from crying guys, how are you?

10k words full of pure sadness. i had to grow through this twice guys, both writing and checking the chapter.

"our star won't burn out"

the riddles have a special place in my heart. my beautiful nightmare.

their relationship was only planned after i wrote the first flashback chapter guys, i randomly came up with dumebldores plan that obviously didn't work, but if you would like me to explain what his plan was let me know as parts of it were revealed but i don't know if it's all clear.

septrim has lost too many people. tom even saw him as a brother but everything has changed.

dumbledore slander will always be welcome in this book. he needs to be stopped and punished for his crimes and with half blood prince approaching, any predictions?

only one more chapter for this short act, but I'll try and make it end on a happy note, even though it will be hard.

are you guys still with me?

the edit for this chapter is almost as sad as the chapter itself, that will be out soon.