"I understand, Ernie," she said softly, and she meant it. Hazel couldn't understand Ernie's reasons and might never act in kind, but she respected that he had to do what felt right to him. That was what being a Hufflepuff was all about. "If... if Madam Pomfrey isn't allowed to heal you, I'll study harder. Just in case."
She smiled weakly, but truly, her heart more than a little swollen with feeling for the older boy. Goodness, Hazel hadn't realized she found bravery attractive.