Regulus took a seat at the Slytherin table next to Arabella McFish, who was his closest colleague after Selwyn. She smiled at him and whispered briefly:

-They were waiting for you...

-What... - he asked, a little confused.

Arabella pointed discreetly toward the table at the far end.

Regulus' gaze noticed the gryffindor looking at him, without any disguise. Came to him face a discomfort mixed with blush. He must have been left over from anger at the arrogant way Potter had treated him in the bookstore...

The slytherin looked down again and came a little further to the right to block the boy's view, using Rockwell as a shield, after all the sixth year goalkeeper was bigger than both of them.

-If you want, we can fix Potter later. Severus is only expecting a nod from you.

-Don't worry, Arabella. For the time being I will take care of my own troubles. I will wave... if necessary.

Headmaster Dumbledore's speech was heard and dinner began.