You and James walk side by side through the corridor, the usual noise of students rushing to class around you. Your bags are slung lazily over your shoulders, and you’ve both taken your time getting to your next lesson — as usual.

You nudge him with your elbow. “I know your secret.”

James raises an eyebrow, that familiar cocky smirk already tugging at his lips. “Alright then, what is it?”

You grin. “You’ve got a crush on Lily Evans.”

He scoffs immediately, but you catch the slight pink in his cheeks. “I do not!”

You laugh. “You practically fall over yourself every time she looks in your direction.”

He rolls his eyes, trying to play it cool. “That’s not a crush. That’s... admiration.”

You snort. “Sure, James. Keep telling yourself that.”