A Stupid Idea

As eleven o'clock approached, all the students and staff began making their way to the Quidditch Pitch.

The Great Hall gradually quieted down. Albert closed his book, stuffed it back into his Transfiguration Lizard Skin Bag, then stood and said to Isobel, who was also passing the time reading at the neighboring Ravenclaw table, "It's almost time. Let's go too."

After placing a bookmark in her book, Isobel used magic to shrink it and slipped it into her robe pocket. Then she followed Albert out of the castle toward the Quidditch Pitch on the grounds.

It was very cold outside, and the snow around the castle showed no sign of melting. Albert instinctively pulled up his scarf, covering the exposed skin more tightly.

"This scarf looks a little ugly now."

Isobel adjusted Albert's scarf for him and muttered to herself, "One day, when I have time, I'll knit you another one!"

"I think this scarf has quite a lot of sentimental value now."

Apparently unwilling to continue that topic, Isobel changed the subject. "By the way, what were you talking about with Percy earlier?"

"Oh, that."

Albert told Isobel about Percy and Penelope's bet.

Isobel fell silent after hearing it, without much of a reaction. She understood very well that most couples were like that. They usually started dating because they were interested in each other, nowhere near the point of being lovers. Dating, arguing, breaking up—those were all perfectly normal things, like eating meals.

The two followed the path Hagrid had cleared in advance toward the Quidditch Pitch.

The match had already begun. Lee Jordan, serving as commentator, was introducing everyone to the Firebolt. This "unprofessional" behavior displeased Professor McGonagall, who was supervising his commentary.

The two looked around, found a spot where no one would disturb them, and