"The Patronus Charm?" After Cho Chang unfolded the parchment and discovered that its contents were not the love letter she had been both anticipating and dreading a little, she felt relieved, but also a little disappointed. Only a little, of course.
But once she carefully read what was on the parchment, a look of delighted surprise appeared on her face again.
"Yeah, you know, I know a bit of the Patronus Charm," Harry said, pretending not to care.
In truth, however, briefly holding off dozens of Dementors with the Patronus Charm during the match against Hufflepuff and rescuing Cedric from their attack was the most satisfying, show-stealing thing Harry felt he had done since coming to Hogwarts.
Even catching the Golden Snitch during the match paled in comparison.
"Yes, I know. You demonstrated it during that match. It was absolutely brilliant." Cho Chang looked very happy.
"This really is a wonderful present. I've been worried for ages. You know, I love going to Hogsmeade, especially the Three Broomsticks. I absolutely love their cherry juice. But there are so many Dementors in Hogsmeade and along the road there that my friends and I are all a little scared."
"Well, now you won't have to be scared anymore." Harry was very pleased with Cho Chang's reaction.
"Yes, yes, thank you so much..." At this point, Cho Chang's pretty face flushed slightly. "I feel so bad. I haven't even prepared a present for you..."
You're the best present.
That was what flashed through Harry's mind at that moment, but the formidable mental strength granted by his excellent Occlumency gave him enough self-control to keep that flippant remark from slipping out.
Of course, if Harry had known that Cho already had some feelings for him, and that being just a little flippant now would