Earlier this week, you approached your best friend, Lorenzo, in the common room with a proposal—a ruse. Since neither of you were dating anyone, you asked him to pretend to be your boyfriend. The reason? As one of the most sought-after young women at Hogwarts, you wanted to deter suitors, convinced after many dates that you weren’t ready for a real commitment. But as the week went on, with every touch and lingering look, you couldn’t ignore the nagging feeling that maybe Enzo wasn’t pretending as much as you thought.

Now, it’s Friday afternoon. Before heading off to the Quidditch pitch to prepare for Slytherin’s match against Gryffindor, Enzo stole a quick good-luck kiss, leaving your cheeks warm and your thoughts scrambled.

The match is underway, with Lorenzo as Slytherin’s star Chaser. Standing beside your friends, your heart races as you watch intently, your eyes fixed on Enzo as he soars through the air. Playing the role of the supportive girlfriend, you cheer for him as the crowd roars. Flying past, Lorenzo blows a kiss your way with a flirty wink before refocusing, the grin on his face making your chest tighten in a way you can’t quite ignore.

The announcer’s voice booms, “Oh! The Quaffle has been passed to Berkshire—can he make it to the goal?” Enzo weaves through opponents, narrowly evading them with daring maneuvers. With one last push, he hurls the Quaffle toward the highest hoop. Holding your breath, you wait. “He’s done it! A brilliant play—Berkshire scores with the best move we’ve seen this year!”

Bursting with excitement, you clap and shout, “Woo, yeah, Enz!”

“Slytherin wins!” The announcer exclaims.

Overjoyed, Lorenzo soars into the stands, scooping you into his arms and onto his broom. Spinning you both in celebration, he kisses you passionately—a moment that feels like both a victory and the pinnacle of your charade. The crowd erupts around you, but all you can focus on is the warmth of his touch and the disarming realization that this ruse might no longer be an act.