She draws her knees to her chest, not bothering to pick herself up off the floor. The effects of Carrow's curse still trickle through her body. Padma doesn't want to move, doesn't want to try anymore.
What's the point? They've lost, and there's no use in fighting or denying it anymore.
A gentle hand grips her shoulder, and she's guided onto her feet. "Are you okay?"
Padma stares at Ernie in disbelief. How could he even ask it? "No, I'm bloody well not okay!" she snaps, harshness replacing her usually quiet tone.
Ernie flinches, but he doesn't let go of her. "I want to show you something," he says. "Tonight, after curfew."
OoOoO
Padma doesn't know why she's risking it. The Carrows have chained people for smaller infractions.
Still, she creeps up to the Astronomy Tower, careful to stay in the shadows and undetected.
"I was wondering if you'd come," Ernie says, taking her hand and leading her to the railing.
"Why am I here?"
He grins. "Do you want the simple answer or the philosophical one?"
She tries to scowl, but she laughs instead. It's the first time she's laughed in months.
"You don't smile anymore," the Hufflepuff says. "You used to smile all the time."
"I didn't realize you were keeping tabs," Padma mutters dryly.
In the light of the stars, she's certain she sees Ernie blush. He mumbles something unintelligible before gesturing towards the sky. "This is why you're here."
"I don't understand..."
"I know you, Padma. I've watched you, and you're not yourself anymore. You're- forgive me- broken."
She starts to protest, but she can't get the words out. Deep down, she knows it's true.
"Growing up, whenever I was sad, my mum would bring me out to look at the stars," Ernie explains. "She always said the tranquility of the night worked a magic none of us could ever understand. If you let it, it can heal all wounds."
Padma stares out at the night sky, watching the string of twinkling stars. "Why do you care?" Her tone isn't bitter, only curious.
He takes her hand, pulling her close. "I told you I've watched you. You're beautiful when you smile."
Her face burns with a blush. Before Padma can even think of a reply, he kisses her, just a delicate, tender brushing of lips.
Padma gives into it, her heart suddenly lighter. For the first time in a long time, she feels like there might be something worth saving after all.
