"No, mum, I'm not interested in Padma that way," he murmured just before entering Haven Books.
Lily slipped in behind him, preferring to walk rather than float today. She was feeling more normal, almost alive, every day. "I'm just saying, you spend a lot of time here."
Harry waited until they had passed the patrons he could see before answering; it wouldn't be a good idea to be caught talking to himself. "Reading passes the time." And what else do I have to do other than babysit?, he thought bitterly.
Spotting Hermione in the most strategic corner of the lounge, he moved to the left, instinctively allowing his mother space, even though no one could see her. "Hey, Hermione! You should know my mum is in tow."