Harry pulled on his pajamas, ready for a good night's rest. "So what did you think of that Stella girl?" he asked.
"Pretty cool. I don't know many people who've lived in Egypt or the Himalayas. She seems almost as smart as Hermione." Ron said.
"That'll be the day," Harry snickered.
"You two talking about that new girl?" Seamus asked.
"Yeah. What'd you think of her?" asked Harry.
"Pretty hot! They don't make 'em like that over here!" Seamus exclaimed.
Harry laughed nervously, because he had been thinking the same thing. I don't really like her though…I barely even know her, he thought. Besides, I'm staying away from girls. They only lead to trouble. I'm sure Cho has already started gossiping about me.
"What'd you think, Dean?" Seamus asked.
"Yeah, definitely a winner," said Dean.
Ron turned around immediately at the comment. "What d'you mean she's a winner? You have Ginny. Ginny not good enough for you? Eh, Thomas?" he bellowed, getting louder by the second.
Oh no, thought Harry, here he goes again. Harry grabbed Ron's shirt and yanked him away before he could start swinging.
"Honestly, Ron. Is there ANYONE good enough for Ginny?" Harry said, exasperated.
"There might be…" Ron said, raising his eyebrows.
What in the world could possibly be going through his head? He really has no sense when it comes to Ginny's boyfriends, thought Harry.
When all were finally in bed, Harry whispered to Ron, "So DO you think Stella is good-looking?"
"Yeah I guess…but she's really not your type. There are better girls out there. Besides, I wonder what Cho would think if you suddenly went out with this girl. I don't think you need any more rumors started." Ron said, sounding a little strange.
He does have a point, you know, Harry thought. I should get to know her anyway…remember what happened when I thought I knew Cho. Another problem came to mind. What if she rejects me? She doesn't seem to be impressed with the Lord Voldemort thing…what am I going to do now? I don't want to get involved with another girl…I guess I'll just see how it goes.
Harry suddenly sat up.
"What're you doing, Harry?" Ron asked.
"I forgot to practice my Occlumency. I've been doing it ever since…ever since what happened. It won't happen again," Harry said, determinedly.
"You know, Harry…It's not your fault…what happened to Sirius…" Ron began.
"Goodnight, Ron." Harry said, coldly.
"'Night, Harry." Ron said quietly.
Harry cleared his mind and closed his eyes, pushing away all thoughts about black dogs and dark-haired girls.