However, Rose and Matilda didn't have anywhere near prior engagements. They snuck behind a faraway tree that was just far enough away to not be seen, but close enough to hear every word of their siblings' conversations.
"So," Hugo said, rubbing the back of his neck and examining his feet, "You're in Ravenclaw?" He looked up into Eleanor's brown eyes.
"Yeah…you're in Gryffindor?" Eleanor asked.
"Mhm, so what's that book you're reading?" Hugo asked, examining the cover of the book.
"Which Owl? It's about different kinds of owl species. I really like owls," she stated.
"Do you have one?" Hugo asked, putting his hands in his pockets.
"Oh, yes, my family does. Her name is Nona, she's a barn owl," said Eleanor excitedly.
"Cool, we have one, a tiny little scops owl named Pigwidgeon," Hugo said.
Eleanor laughed, "Pigwidgeon?"
Hugo shrugged, "My aunt named him, we call him Pig,"
Eleanor smiled, "So… what's your favorite subject?"
Hugo thought for a moment before replying, "Defense Against the Dark Arts, definitely, you?"
"Astronomy, I just love the stars," Eleanor said.
"Er…listen, I promised my friends I'd meet up with them soon, you think we might be able to meet up the Saturday after next?" Hugo asked, rubbing the back of his neck.
Eleanor's face fell, "After next?"
"Yeah, well, I'd say we could meet up next Saturday, but there's this Quidditch game next Saturday, and I'm playing chaser," Hugo said, trying to amend his mistake.
"Oh…well I was going to go the game, so I suppose we could meet up after that, maybe," Eleanor said, brightening up.
"I think we could work that out, sure," Hugo smiled.
"I'd like that," Eleanor said, smiling and nodding. "Well, I'll let you go meet your friends. Bye Hugo, see you at the game," She said, waving as she turned and left.
Hugo stood there for a second before calling out, "See you there Eleanor, bye!"
From behind their tree Rose and Matilda smiled broadly at each other, and then high-fived each other, knowing their plan had worked spectacularly.