Draco Malfoy was not at lunch that day. Professor Snape had asked -- ordered - Draco to see him in his office during that time.

"Mr. Malfoy, I am extremely disappointed in you. Two weeks from the Christmas holidays and you've got detention. Explain yourself."

"I'd rather not talk about it, sir. You can ask Professor Flitwick."

"I have already spoken with Professor Flitwick. The way you conducted yourself was. . . unbecoming of both a Slytherin and a Malfoy. Your father will not be pleased."

"But she turned me into goo, Professor!" Draco did his best to sound indignant.

"That is beside the point, Mr. Malfoy. The fact is that you felt the need to perform the charm on her, instead of retaliating in a more. . . discreet manner, as becomes a Slytherin."

"You're right, sir. It won't happen again."

"Indeed. You may go." Draco left hurriedly, torn between sorrow that he had disappointed his favorite teacher and elation at the prospect of being alone with Hermione.