Ties that Bind

He turns to look at her, his lip curled in disgust. "I don't fraternize with Gryffindors," he snaps, turning on his heel and storming away, leaving her standing alone in the now empty stairwell, tears filling her eyes as her heart breaks. She wraps her arms around her stomach, trying to work up the courage and pride to enter Gryffindor tower. When she finally does, Hermione is waiting for her, a concerned frown on her face.