"Missed the carriages?" asked Ron, when Harry got back.

"Yeah."

"We waited for you."

"I'm sorry."

Bitterness warred with concern in Ron's voice when he said, "You were with Malfoy?"

Harry nodded. He looked at Ron, starting to feel guilty for his thoughtlessness.

Ron spoke before Harry could: "And you both made it back safely?"

Harry nodded again, speechless.

"That's good, then," said Ron flatly, not sounding as though he agreed with himself. "Good night."

"Ron, I -"

"Don't worry, mate. Just get some sleep."

Harry stared into the moonlit shadows, wondering how he possibly could.

SPW chapter listing

Chapter 11: Relation