“Are you proper thick or something Dagon?”
“Excuse me?” They were sat at the back of the charms class and Gabriella was staring into space as her far from delightful Slytherin partner droned on about how important their exams were. When he’d realised she wasn’t listening, he’d felt the need to state that the best thing she could cast was a levitating charm and even that was lousy.

It wasn’t the best thing to say to a girl already wound up by the pressures of her NEWTS and having no idea what to do after her exams. It certainly wasn’t the best thing to say to a girl on the anniversary of losing her mother in the battle of Hogwarts. Gabriella had a short temper at the best of times.

“I got bloody lumbered with the bloody moron who’s going to get a troll. Bloody great.” The Slytherin continued.

Irritated, Gabby swore loudly and stood up. “Then do it yourself.” she snatched up her bag and quickly left the room, not giving their professor a chance to stop her.

It didn’t take long for the teenager, in her decidedly dishevelled uniform, to make it to the grand staircase and she started to take the stairs two at a time in her rush. Her cheeks were red with anger and the rush of running up the stairs and her hair was its usual mess, scraped back into a scruffy bun.

Seeing the Head of Gryffindor at the top of the staircase brought the girl to an immediate halt. News surely didn’t travel that fast? And why would Singh be interested in her walking out of class? The wizard probably didn’t even know her name, he was so new. Plus, she'd managed to get to seventh year without any serious trouble. Apparently there was some to make up for.

Professor Singh stopped at the top. He did not speak. He had been Head of Gryffindor since September. He tried to know every student's name as quickly as he could. He was always neatly dressed. He meditated a lot which helped. The school was very busy. It was important to find time alone. He was always there for his students. The 7th years were very busy. They had exams getting closer. He wanted them to do well. Gabriella Dagon did not look very happy.
"Good morning Gabby." Professor Singh said. He bowed his head to her. "How are you?"