"So, are you coming?"

"Malfoy, does it look like I am in any way intending to come to lessons?"

"No, I was just checking,"

Blaise glanced up from the book he was studying, noting Malfoy's glum expression. The tenuous friendship between them had been renewed once Malfoy had sat sobbing in the common room all night.

"Look, just tell Flitwick I'm not feeling well, he won't mind,"

"Sure, but why are you skiving?"

"I can't be bothered, OK?"

"Fine,"

"Blaise?" His head shot up when he heard her voice, and saw her stood by one of the bookshelves, a troubled expression on her face.

"Take it that means I'm dismissed," Malfoy spoke casually, before sauntering off.

"What's wrong?" He dropped the book and slid between the tables to stand in front of her. She bit her lip, her eyes downcast.

"Ginny?" He took her hands, his eyes boring in to her.

"Blaise, I... There's nothing you want to tell me is there? I mean no massive secrets that you know I would not like? It's OK if you have; I just want you to tell me now,"

He stood still for a moment, thinking. She hoped she had imagined the cloud that flitted momentarily across his features.

"Nothing, I promise," He pulled her into a hug, resting his chin lightly on the top of her head.

She sighed, unable to relax with his confirmation that she was overwrought and grasping at straws. Her hand rested on his sleeve, and she moved closer trying to convince herself that she was being ridiculous.

"Ginny?"

"That's Harry, I have to go,"

"Why is he calling you?" Blaise struggled to hide the bitter jealousy in his voice.

"He said he would help me with Defence against the Dark Arts, I'm falling behind," She looked up at his grave face, before stretching and kissing him.

"I love you," She whispered, before turning and running towards Harry.

He stood there alone, touching him lips before mouthing, "I love you too,"

*****

It was getting darker as Ginny was walking back to the common room, smiling to herself at how earnest Harry was. She was about to climb the stairs when she heard low urgent voices coming from the passage nearest t her. Gritting her teeth, Ginny peered round the corner, only to confirm her suspicions. It was Malfoy and Blaise.