Of all his classes, Care of Magical Creatures would be the best, if Lupin would just leave him be.

"Talk to Hermione, Harry."

He's not sure he wants to. Not if she's just going to lecture him again. Try to make it his fault again.

"She's feeling terrible. She's caught between her two best friends."

He looks over to where the Gryffindors have formed a tight pack. Several of them are eyeing him resentfully.

He wonders if he should tell Lupin why he can't go over and talk to her.

But he doesn't.

He leaves class surrounded by ever-wary bodyguards.