You’re seated in the Gryffindor common room, surrounded by piles of textbooks and parchment, when Percy Weasley appears, looking unusually hesitant. His quill is poised, brow furrowed, but there’s something in his expression that makes you stop mid-note.

“Y/N…” he begins, rubbing the back of his neck. “I… was wondering if you could help me with my O.W.L. prep. I… I’ve been struggling a bit with… Transfiguration.”

You raise an eyebrow, surprised. “You? Struggling with Transfiguration?”

Percy flushes, clearly embarrassed. “It’s… complicated! And I thought… maybe we could… study together?”

You can’t help but grin. “Of course. I’d be happy to help.”

He settles beside you on the couch, spreading out his notes. At first, it’s all business: formulas, incantations, and careful explanations. But then, Percy leans closer than necessary to point something out, and you notice the faint scent of his aftershave.

“Here,” he says, voice low, “if you pronounce the spell just right, it should work better.” He demonstrates, wand movements precise, then glances at you, catching your gaze a little too long.

You bite back a smile. “Wow… that’s impressive.”

Percy clears his throat, looking flustered. “Th-thank you. Um… maybe we should… practice together?” His hands hover over his notes, nervously adjusting them