The Riddle behind her power

Part 4

I realized how interested I was in a potions competition right after Hermione left. There was no doubt I'd excel or maybe even win the damn thing if I tried. I was wondering how father would take it; would he be thrilled or appalled by the idea of my attracting so much attention. I couldn't go ask him of course but I supposed he'd take it well if he found out after I'd won. A bit hard, if you ask me, for such a thing to happen, considering that a dozen of his followers' kids are attending Hogwarts and no doubt giving a full report about my whereabouts.

"Hey there," a male voice says behind me and I turn to see a boy about my age, or maybe a bit older, approaching. He was wearing a yellow scarf over the basic school attire. He was obviously a Hufflepuff. I could be friends with a Hufflepuff, they're nice. 

"I'm Cedric," added the boy and extended his hand.

Pleased with myself to have avoided any open haters screaming at me, I shake his hand, smiling. "It's nice to meet you, Cedric." I say and, though unnecessary, I add, "I'm Y/n."

"Are you taking part in the potions competition?" He asked right after. Wow, straightforward. I could definitely be friends with him.

A bit surprised by his going straight to the subject, I chuckle awkwardly before replying, "I'm thinking about it. Why do you ask?"

"I'm taking part and I was wondering whether you were, and if so, whether you're going to study with the group."

"What group?"

"Well, all the participants will gather to sign up in the library and then, whoever wants to, can also keep coming back to study there. The librarian will also be excluding a part of the library especially for this. Many studies together as a group."

Were the circumstances different, meaning he wasn't that good-looking, I'd immediately decline and go study on my own. Growing up the way I did, I was kind of forced to become a loner and, besides, this is a Competition. Not an exam where everyone can pass. However, this was my first day and I could use some friends, or distractions. Cedric would make for a very good distraction and in all honesty, I kind of needed it. So, I batted my eyelashes and turned to him.

"Will you be there?"

Cedric smiled. "No, I'll be studying to my dorm, but if you want to join me, you are welcome."

We both knew I'd stop by later but I was playing hard to get at the moment. "I'll think about that too."

"You know," he leaned closer, "I too prefer studying on my own. But, if you decide to take part and don't want to study by yourself..." He took some steps back, smile still bright, and said finally, "Think about it."

Cedric left and by the time he'd crossed the bridge, I was certain I was going to take part in the damn thing. I hadn't yet decided I'd take Cedric's offer, as I doubted I'd manage to actually study with him. Though, in all honesty, this wasn't about studying and we both knew it.

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