Classes are a nightmare.

Charms. He hides behind Crabbe and Goyle's bulk at the back of the classroom.

Transfiguration. In a corner, ignoring the looks shot his way from the Gryffindor side.

Herbology isn't worse than usual, until he's paired with Finch-Fletchley.

And his potion is perfect.

"Must be a hereditary talent," says Malfoy.

Slytherin loses twenty points.

He leaves the classroom feeling ill, skips dinner, and heads for the dorm.

Then he remembers.

He stops, not sure what to do now.

Students push past him, some pushing harder than they need to.

He wonders if he should find Snape.