➵ Choice ➵ {DM and HP)

➵ Chapter 9 ➵

In the end, and much to Hermione's excitement, Ron is chosen as the new Keeper.

"El!"

I hear my name and turn to see Quinn waving me over, signaling that it was time to go.

I turn back to Hermione, "Hey, I have to go get ready for tryouts, thanks again for the whole Malfoy thing."

She smiles, "No problem, good luck!"

I smile back then run over to where Quinn is exiting the stands. We climb down the stairs then begin walking over to the big tent on the side of the pitch.

"Come on," Quinn says, picking up her pace. "Benji and A went ahead."

"Benji?" I question as I pick up my speed, trying to stay with her.

"Yeah, new nickname for Benjamin, it started as a joke but now he says he's fine with it. It's cute, right?" I nod and she continues, "Why were you sitting with Granger? I thought you found her annoying?"

"Yeah, but she did stand up to Malfoy for me last night, it's a long story," I add before she asks, "And now that I've actually spoken with her, she seems ok."

We reach the big structure and Quinn points to an opening in the tent, and we push it open to reveal the changing rooms. We slip on the provided tryout outfit as Audrey tells us about the team.

We learn that they're looking for a new chaser and seeker, and two reserves, one chaser and keeper. She explains to me how competitive Quidditch is at Hogwarts, a funny concept to me, because it was always a casual sport at Beauxbatons.

"Ready?" Quinn asks suddenly, and, not waiting for a response, walks quickly out of the tent.

I run after her, trying to catch up with her long strides as she exits the tent. I turn the corner and run straight into someone, falling against the tent behind me.

"I'm sorr— Oh hey Eloise."

I straighten myself and look up to see Harry. His face is flushed pink with excitement and a wide smile stretches across his face. His hair is messier than ever, and he has quite a few mud stains on his robes as well as a few spots here and there on his cheeks. He's breathing heavily and he quickly runs his hand through his dark hair, glancing briefly behind him.

"Hey, I heard Ron got the keeper position," I say and he smiles.

"Yeah, he definitely deserves it," He says, nodding.

"You weren't so bad yourself," I tease and I'm pretty sure I see him blush a little under all the mud.

"O-oh well I, you know," he says uncertainly, then he says simply. "Thanks."

Another moment then he suddenly draws his emerald eyes off of the floor and they meet mine, curious.

"Are you trying out for the Ravenclaw team?" He questions, holding my gaze.

I shrug, "Yeah, but not really by choice."

"Well, I—" He's suddenly cut off by Quinn's loud voice.

"OI, YOU TWO STOP FLIRTING, EL GET OVER HERE!"

I feel my face grow hot, mimicking Harry's reddening cheeks.

"I'm not—" I start and he adds.

"Yeah I wasn't...."

We hold each other's gaze for a moment before I drop mine, staring at my feet.

"Well, I should probably go," I say awkwardly and he nods.

He moves to the side to let me pass and before I go far, he calls after me, "Good luck."