Stephen bit his lip when Padma snapped at him. He lowered his had a little and spoke a little softer. His hand reached out and grabbed hers.
"Padma, you've been working like crazy since Anthony somehow became possessed to attack Jamie and it's only gotten worse since Lavender died. I understand... I understand that you're going through a lot right now, but working and studying like NEWTs are tomorrow is not going to help. Let me help you, Padma. At least tell me why you were crying when I sat down." Stephen was nearly begging her, he didn't like that Padma was hurting. He knew that in the long run there was nothing he could do, but he couldn't not try.