The plan was simple: fake dating Ron W to shut down a nasty rumor Draco M had started. Nothing more, nothing less.

At least, that's what you kept telling yourself as Ron slung his arm casually around your shoulders in the Great Hall, leaning in close like it was the most natural thing in the world.

—"Just play along," he muttered near your ear, his voice low, his breath warm against your skin. "We'll make it look real enough and Malfoy’ll shut up."

At first, it was awkward. Stiff smiles. Awkward side-hugs. A lot of nervous glances at each other. But it didn’t stay awkward for long.

Ron... got into it. He laughed at everything you did, bumped your shoulder playfully when you walked together, ruffled your hair like he couldn't help himself.

And it didn’t stop there.

During lunch, he'd pile your favorite food onto your plate without asking. During Herbology, he’d stand a little too close, reaching over you with a grin that made your heart trip. And when Malfoy tried to snicker in passing, Ron grabbed your hand without hesitation, lifting it between you like it was obvious you belonged to him.

—"What's the matter, Malfoy?" Ron said lazily, smirking. "Jealous you can't get someone half as brilliant?"

You barely managed to hide the way your cheeks flamed.

The worst—no, the best—part was when, after a study session in the common room, Ron leaned back on the couch, arm stretched behind you like it was the most natural place in the world for it to be.

He didn't even look at you when he said it:

—"You know... we're getting pretty good at this."