Groaning internally, Zach thought as quickly as he could manage.
"Nah, more like Nimbus is overworking me. Been exhausted. Figured better safe than sorry."
He was glad any bruises he had, aside from his knuckles, were safely hidden under his business get-up. Susan was an old friend, and a good one, but the bright sunlight of Diagon Alley didn't seem suitable for dark confessions. And, if he was being honest with himself, Zach feared seeing her face change the way his grandfather's had upon learning the truth.
"Please do. Anything that will help." Zach normally didn't like having a wand pointed at him, but he'd make an exception for a cooling charm from Susan.
He leaned toward her, saying, "I hope you're right. You know I've never been a fan of a dog and pony show under any circumstances. Even less so when I'm the center attraction."
Zach glanced down at his watch. He was already running late, but he was starved for friendly contact, and found himself reluctant to walk away. "Look, I have this stupid meeting at Quality Quidditch Supplies, but it shouldn't take long. D'you wanna meet up in about an hour or so, get a coffee or something? Or combine errands?"