Lily Evans strolled through Honeyduke's, simply browsing. She wasn't really in a sweets mood, but the rest of the girls had abandoned her. That was okay though.
She twirled a sugar quill between her fingers. She would just get one of these. She went to pay for it, and that's when she saw them.
Crystalized pineapple slices.
The man saw her eyeing them and smiled, "Oh? Would you like a box?"
She nodded and paid. Then she made her way back to the castle and the Potions Master's office.
Deep coughing came from the other side of the door as she rapped lightly. A sallow-faced Professor Slughorn opened the door, holding a handkerchief over his cough.
"Miss Evans," he paused to cough more, "Wh-what a surprise. To what do I owe this-" More coughing. "Honor?"
He looked awful. He'd lost quite a bit of weight. His hair had lost most of its luster. His eyes were dulled. She was almost certain if she were to touch his face, it would be feverish.
"Sir, have you been to see Madam Pomfrey?"
He shook his head and turned, "No need. I'm perfectly fine." He stifled a cough, "C-come in, m'dear."
She smiled softly as she followed him. Silly man. He sat in his overstuffed armchair and smiled faintly at her.
"Now, I'm certain you're not here to chat with an old man."
She handed him the bag. "I brought you something, Professor. I know they're your favorite."
He dug into the bag and his face lit up with genuine happiness. "Thank you, Miss Evans."
She smiled softly and turned to leave. "I'll ask Madam Pomfrey to send down some medicine." And then she left.