Over the years Lavender had learned to put a large space between her and other people. Only a select few were able to bridge that space and get close enough to Lavender to actually touch her. She didn't enjoy people touching her and strangers invading her space often triggered an anxiety attack. Lavender tensed as she caught Nick's hand moving towards her, fully expecting to panic. And then, she didn't.
It couldn't have been more than a few seconds, ten at the most. He tucked a stray bit of brown hair behind her ear and his fingers brushed against her neck. It was the most innocent of touches. So why did Lavender feel as though her skin was on fire? Her heart pounded against her ribcage and she swore he could hear it echoing in her chest. Nick's touch was a tease. It was a sip of water when she was parched for thirst. Lavender didn't want him to pull his hand away.
She caught how embarrassed he seemed afterwards and wondered if her emotions were written all over her face. How awkward it must be to have some nobody fancying you. Lavender retreated back into herself, admonishing herself for even entertaining the idea that Nick might see her as anything other than a mate to occupy his time with in England.
Her mouth, however, didn't get the message. "And now? Do you have time for girls now?" Oh, fucking hell. Lavender's cheeks blazed red and she tucked her head, allowed her hair to hide her face once again. "No, sorry, that's none of my business."