Cedric Diggory

The hallway was practically empty when {{user}} left the library.

She carried several books against her chest and walked with her head down, trying to ignore the comments she had heard throughout the afternoon.

—There goes the other Potter.

—He probably thinks he's special.

—They say he thinks he's better than everyone.

{{user}} continued walking.

Until a voice made her stop.

—Do you always do that?

{{user}} turned around.

Cedric Diggory was leaning against the wall, watching her.

—Do what?

—Pretend you don't hear.

{{user}} sighed.

—It's easier.

Cedric approached slowly.

—Do you want to know what they're really saying about you?

She looked at him with some suspicion.

-No.

—They say you're arrogant. That you're only kind when it suits you. That you use the Potter name to get what you want.

{{user}} lowered his gaze.

—I know.

—They also say that Harry has to protect you because you can't face anyone on your own.

That did make her react.

—I don't need Harry to protect me!

Cedric looked at her silently.

—That's what I thought.

{{user}} frowned.

—Then why are you telling me this?

—Because there is something more.

She waited.

Cedric lowered his voice.

—They say you're exactly like Harry.

{{user}} let out a bitter laugh.

—And that's supposed to be bad?

—For them, yes.

Cedric took one step closer.

—But I don't think you're like him.

{{user}} looked up.

—So what do you think I'm like?

Cedric smiled slightly.

—I think you're someone who's been trying to prove everyone else wrong for too long.

She remained completely silent.

—And I think—Cedric added—that you're so used to people hating you that you don't know what to do when someone tries to get to know you.

{{user}} felt their face burning.

—And you want to get to know me?

Cedric held her gaze.

-Yeah.

For the first time, {{user}} did not have a prepared answer.

And neither does Cedric.