A small, apologetic smile flits across Hermione's face as she raised her wand to my head. "I'm sorry, Neville." Her words are kind but matter-of-fact. My body freezes and I topple painfully on to my back. They all three look down at my still form before continuing out of the Gryffindor Common Room.
I had finally stood up against someone for their own good—and the good of Gryffindor—and I had ended up flat on my back in the middle common room, stuck until someone came across me.
It's funny. Even Hermione has made friends here; the first day on the train she confided in me that she thought she never would. Now she is part of the golden trio and I am still alone.
The trio is sitting somewhat nearby at the leaving feast and al of Gryffindor is cheering the points awarded for their bravery. I've gotten off easy so far. No one has pushed it into my face that they earned points from what I said would lose us points.
Harry's points bring us to a tie for the house cup and the Slytherin's groan. Then Dumbledore is speaking once again.
"There are all kinds of courage. It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends. I therefore award ten points to Mr. Neville Longbottom."
The Gryffindor table turns to me with bright, smiling faces and erupt s into cheers. As the words "Longbottom won us the house cup!" are cried out across the long table I realize I may be able to make it here after all.