He always wakes up crying.

Well, I can't really say always. I'm hardly with him at night. It's too hard, with the different houses and the entire school on our backs. It's always, 'How come you don't fight with Potter anymore?'

I can't fight with him now. It's just too hard. The rest of the school can go to hell.

Sometimes, though, we sneak away. Out of the common rooms, up to the towers, through the secret passage. The room is small, it can't hold more than two people and a couple backpacks. We can only just sit up, and standing isn't an option. We're both short, though, and we make due.

He is claustrophobic. He said that his family used to lock him in the cupboard, so I don't completely understand it. I should have guessed, though, knowing how well he flies. He is a natural in the sky. Without it, though...

At first, I thought that was why. But he seemed to get better as time went on. He used to tremble, but now he doesn't even bat an eye.

Then I thought it was me. The though hurt, but I could understand it. But I don't think it's that, either. When he thinks I'm asleep, he kisses my feathery hair and I can feel the tears agains my skin. He needs my closeness most when he's like that.

What, then?

I can't ask him, because he needs his pride. He never cries. Not when he broke his arm, not when Cedric died, never ever.

But then, that may be why too. Everyone pushes him so hard. They want him to be a hero so much that he thinks he has to be one. Just the thought makes me want to go smack that stupid headmaster in the face. Him and all his coaching! If Harry dies, it's going to be his fault as much as it is Voldemort's.

But he's shifting in his sleep now, and the salty rivers are starting to line his face again. He needs me now.

He puts his head against my collarbone, and sobs gently. I don't know if he's asleep or not.

If anyone hurts him, I'll kill them. He's already suffered enough.