
{{{rose}}}
[ Normally, she hated the nickname. Everyone
used in such a condescending tone and if there
was one thing she hated it was being talked down
to. Yet from him it came as a soft assurance of
comfort and she scooted closer, her eyes falling
to the floor ]
❝ He found out that we’re friends… and just the things
he said. I’ve just never disappointed him before….and
the worst part is he brought up mum and what she had
gone through that night in Malfoy Manor. And I had to
sit there while everyone looked at me like some kind of
criminal. I couldn’t cry, I couldn’t let him win. But I just…
couldn’t hold it in any longer ❞

❝Malfoy Manor … he’s really upset , isn’t he ?❞
It took some courage to bring something like that up . Even Score’s
father refused to talk about it ; it was a dark day for everyone involved .
But there was no way for Scorpius to debunk his anger . If he hadn’t
known himself , he wouldn’t have wanted people hanging out with him .
Malfoys were not known for being the most trustworthy of people . He
frowned deeply before standing up , nodding towards the entrance hall .
❝Look , Rose , I’m horrified that I did this . It’s my
fault . I’ll write your father a letter and see if I can
apologize . Maybe he’ll forgive me . If not , I’m sorry
to have messed this up for you . I’ll see what I can
do , okay ? I’m so sorry .❞
{{{rose}}}
[ She leaned into his touch despite herself. This
was why she hated being seen as vulnerable.
The mere thought of leaning on someone for
support was terrifying. ]
❝ It’s stupid really….I’m assuming you heard
about the Howler my father sent. I’m utterly
humiliated. ❞

❝Rosie …❞
He knows she hates the nickname , but she seems so small ,
it fits . When she leans into his hand he takes the opportunity to
shift her closer to him , put her hand in his . It’s what he’d have
wanted in that situation ; he figures she can’t be too different .
❝Howler ? Um , no , I’ve not heard of any of those . Can’t be
that bad , can it ? I mean , what could you have done ?❞
{{{rose}}}
❝ You do realize, I’m undefeated
right? ❞

❝As am I . I suppose we’ll see who
really is the winner now , huh ?❞
{{{rose}}}
❝ I don’t like it when people see me cry.
I don’t want to be thought of as weak ❞

❝That , my dear ,❞ he began , lifting a hand to wipe
a stray tear from her cheek , ❝is insanity . I don’t see
how crying could make you seem anything but emotional .
Now then , will you tell me why you’re crying in the first
place ?❞