Word Count: 415
She stares at her book, trying so desperately to ignore the fact that she is stuck with Ted Tonks as a partner. He's nice enough, so she doesn't personally mind, but she knows her family would be appalled. Of course, it isn't her fault; Flitwick had chosen for them to work together, and it isn't like she could refuse without risking her grade.
"Do you ever get tired of it?" Ted asks.
She looks up from her book. Why does he have to smile like that? He is a Muggleborn, and he has no right to look so handsome. Internally, she scolds herself for having such thoughts. "Tired of what?" she asks with an irritated sigh before returning her attention to her book.
Maybe he'll get the hint, and Andromeda will be able to read in peace. Luck doesn't seem to be on her side. Only a moment passes before Ted says, "Letting your family control every aspect of your life."
Andromeda stiffens and inhales sharply, her nostrils flaring. She isn't sure how to respond. Deep down, she knows he has a point. Worse, she agrees with him. There's always been some part of her that envied so many of her peers for their freedom. It seems like every part of her life has already been chosen for her, and she has no choice but to comply.
"I don't mean to pry," he whispers.
She turns her gaze to him. "Actually, I think that's exactly what you meant to do. Were you expecting me to break down and sob about how miserable my life is? Am I supposed to tell you that I hate them, and I want out?"
Her chest constricts painfully. She doesn't even realize she's started crying until Ted reaches out and gently brushes away the traitorous tears that roll down her cheek.
"You didn't have to," he says. "I can see it."
He shouldn't be touching her like this. Maybe it's something soft and innocent, but she knows how wrong her family would say it is.
And she doesn't care. She's supposed to because she is a Black, and Blacks don't let things like this happen. But Ted is so good and kind, and she realizes very quickly that she doesn't mind at all. It's wrong, but it feels so right.
"If you want out," he says softly, "let me take you to Hogsmeade this weekend."
"My sisters would destroy you."
"Oh, Andromeda, I think you are worth taking that risk."
