He didn't need to apologize; they both knew that. Truth of the matter was Hestia was rather pleased he turned up, regardless how awkward it made her feel inwardly. There was something reassuring and comforting about his presence, it made her feel as if she could face a dozen Death Eaters and still come out on the better end of the deal. She had to put forth all of her energies into focusing on his words, hoping futility that task would take so much out of her that Hes wouldn't entertain her fancies.
The light kiss upon her cheek instantly drew forth a pink hue in her skin, and for the first time tonight, Hestia was genuinely grateful the grounds weren't more appropriately lit. If so, it would be unavoidable; John would've caught her blushing like a schoolgirl. She never grew accustomed to his attentions, always skeptical of the meaning behind his actions and falling all over herself attempting to remain distant. This was just his manner. She couldn't think too far into things. She wasn't the first, certainly she wouldn't be the last. That would be asking for too much, and Hestia wasn't the type of girl that ended up with the guy when all was said an done. She never had been. "At the moment, a bit cold," she managed to choke out, hoping her voice hadn't betrayed her. She forced a tight smile at John before her eyes shot back down to her feet, the two heading towards the pitch together. She hadn't anticipated his company, but as was said before, couldn't complain much.
Crossing her arms tightly underneath her robes, the two gained ground, their steps seeming rather in-sync with one another. Her lips puckered together as if she were inwardly struggling, Hestia finally managing to continue on with the conversation. "How about you, John? The students giving you much trouble these days?" No one ever seemed to 'best' John Dawlish, at least not as far as she'd seen. The mousy girl had been eager to hear of his take on the year thus far, though.