Potter, the Suspect Seeking to Prove His Innocence (I)

He turned and walked through the younger students still whispering among themselves, past those complicated gazes filled with fear and suspicion. As he passed Hermione, she murmured, "We'll wait for you in the common room." He nodded without stopping.

Ron followed close behind him, so close Harry could feel the warmth of his shoulder. Ron said nothing, but he patted Harry's back. The touch was light but steady, as if to say, "I'm here."

Percy Weasley stood at the entrance to the common room, holding a roll of parchment densely covered in writing. He wore a grave expression, beneath which lay another layer of feeling—the sense of responsibility that said, "I have to complete the task the professors gave me."

Three other Gryffindor prefects stood beside him, two boys and one girl, all upper-year students.

They stood in a row like a low wall, blocking the entrance to the common room.

"Harry," Percy began, his voice lower than usual but still carrying that businesslike tone, as though he were reading out a notice. "Starting tomorrow, the rest of us will take turns accompanying you. Professor McGonagall has already arranged it. Here's the list." He handed over the parchment and waited for Harry to accept and sign it.

"Starting tomorrow morning, I'll be responsible for taking you to class. During breaks, Oliver Wood will take over. At lunch and dinner, it'll be—" He read out several names, but Harry did not take them in. He saw Wood standing behind Percy, and the expression on his face did not say, "I'm here to watch you." It said, "I'm here to help you."

Wood came over and reached out to pat Harry on the shoulder. His hand was large and thick, its warmth passing through the fabric of Harry's robes to his skin.