A terrible feeling curls itself around me and I can’t explain the reason again. This woman has never done anything to me, why should that bad feeling be there..... but my gut is screaming for her not to come. I decide to ignore it. “Come round about three.” 
 
 
 

Absentmindedly, I notice the window beside us starting to steam, and with horrid realisation remember the first Dementor attack on the Hogwarts Express, flinching slightly. If I was sat with anyone else they would have asked me what was wrong, but Luna just nods as though she can see into my mind, as if she understands everything.... I want so much for her to talk about something else. I search around in my memory, but nothing’s coming. To make matters worse, I’m thinking more and more about that kiss.

I’m lying in bed the next morning. Something tells me I drank a bit too much vodka last night because I feel like two trolls have punched my head in. Even Luna’s Dirigible Plum pie doesn’t help my mood.... That’s when you know things are serious.
 
 
 
 

I feel awful for lying, but I really want to keep the mood balanced. “Somehow, I don’t think Ginny would understand and just accuse me about liking you again.”

Astoria shuffles closer on the sofa, putting an arm around me. Hastily, I push it away. “I was just comforting you. Honestly.” Her long lashes are coated with mascara. “Just being a friend.”
 
 
 
 
 
 

I don’t even hear what my wife orders, too intent on getting out quickly. I’m not sure if my feelings are displayed, or it's possible that they can be seen from a few metres away, but there is no way in hell that I am going to take that risk.

Deep down though, I won’t run away from this, I know it. Where can we meet? Scorpius didn’t say we had to be on our own, but I feel as though I owe it to Malfoy. It would be cowardly to think and do otherwise, which is why I can’t believe I even thought about writing a letter now.....

 
 

My brain switches off for a while, listening to the pair of them talk over things which I have no clue about. I have to owl Ginny later, tell her I’m staying at Luna’s. It’s so relaxing here, and the sun’s even shining. Even though I know I can’t escape from reality forever, it is liberating to have a night away from it.

“It was a mistake,” I whisper croakily, “A big one.....”

“Harry, no.....” Astoria pleads.

“It was. I’m sorry, but I really don’t think, I love you. I never did. I was just frustrated with what was going on at home..... You made me feel young again, we were in a bubble. I mistook that for something more.”