Tom's eyes softened with concern as he looked at teenage Rodolphus, who sat rigid, tension etched into his features. "Rodolphus, what's wrong? You look scared," he asked quietly.
Rodolphus hesitated, his throat tightening as he spoke. "I didn't have consent when it happened. I didn't like it or want it."
The room seemed to freeze. Tom's expression darkened with barely contained rage. His voice, though calm, held a dangerous edge. "Who, Rodolphus? Who did this to you?"
Rodolphus's brow furrowed, his eyes reflecting fear and confusion. "I don't know. They wore a mask. I couldn't see their face."
Tom inhaled deeply, steadying himself before speaking again. "Do you want your mother to know? I can control her when she's here."
Rodolphus let out a shaky breath, shoulders sagging under the weight of his admission. "Yes, please. And my brother too."
With a swift motion, Tom pressed his fingers to the Dark Mark on his arm, summoning Ginger and Rabastan Lestrange. Rodolphus glanced up at him, his voice barely audible as he asked, "Can you sit by me? I don't trust Mother."
Without hesitation, Tom nodded and took a seat beside Rodolphus, his mere presence offering a small measure of comfort. Moments later, Ginger and Rabastan Apparated into the room, their greetings automatic.
"My Lord," they both said in unison.
Rabastan's eyes found Rodolphus immediately, and he hurried to his side, concern evident in his young face. Ginger, however, took one look at Rodolphus and her expression twisted into fury.
"How dare you leave when I told you to stay!" she hissed, her eyes narrowing as she stormed towards her son. "How dare you come to our Lord and complain! I arranged that check-up for a reason, Rodolphus! You are in so much trouble when we get home."
Her hand lifted, poised to strike, but before she could take another step, Tom was on his feet, eyes blazing with cold fury. "What are you doing?" he growled, his tone venomous. "You dare strike your own child?"
Ginger's gaze turned defiant as she squared her shoulders. "My Lord, he's been out of line. A future Lord should know better."
Tom's voice dropped to an icy calm, his words a chilling command. "He is a young boy who needs his mother, not this. Your behavior is unacceptable."
Ginger's lips curled into a sneer, her voice dripping with condescension. "He'll speak to me privately if he needs me. You, my Lord, should stay in your place."
Tom's patience snapped, his presence overwhelming as he stepped forward, towering over her. "This is my place, Ginger. And as long as he is under my roof, he will be treated with respect. Now leave, before I make you."
For a long moment, Ginger glared, her eyes darting between Tom and Rodolphus. Finally, she turned with a huff, storming out, leaving an oppressive silence behind. Rodolphus, still tense, glanced over at Tom, feeling a mix of relief and lingering fear.
"You're safe here," Tom said softly, his tone gentle now.
