3
Lunch came around too soon in Barty’s opinion. It was the only time he had to catch up with his friends instead of arguing mindlessly with Evan. Now, he was stuck doing particularly that, but this time he was surrounded by his friends who watched in amusement.
‘Fuck off, I literally got a 59 on that test.’ Barty said, biting into a piece of apple. He hated apples, but he had to compromise since that’s what Evan had for lunch.
‘And I got a 60. Admit it, Bats, I’m better than you.’ Barty rolled his eyes.
‘Nicknames? Since when are you into them?’ Dorcas asked, resting her chin on her hand.
‘Since always.’ He lied, looking at Evan. ‘Also, you are not better than me. It was one test.’
‘It was multiple tests, baby, but it’s okay I’m willing to admit that you’re smart.’ Evan shot a warning look to Barty, who looked over his shoulder discreetly. He found a familiar head of curls.
James and Regulus sat down next to Dorcas, almost right opposite to Barty and Evan. Evan leaned into Barty.
‘Target located. Amp it up, loverboy.’ He moved to his original place. As much as he absolutely abhorred the situation he was in, he snaked an arm around Evan’s waist, pulling him closer.
‘I’m going to have to wash my hands at least three times after this.’ He whispered to Evan, a smile on his face.
‘Make sure to use bleach.’ There was a bite to his voice, almost jealous.
‘I hate you.’
‘Empty promises will get you nowhere.’ Evan turned to face him. ‘We should make small talk with them.’
‘No.’ Barty whisper-screamed. Evan grinned, turning back to the group.
‘Hey guys, I’m seeing you after so long.’ Barty could throttle him.
‘Yeah, it’s been a while, huh?’ James spoke, hand rubbing the back of his neck. Barty noticed that James didn’t make eye contact with Evan the same way Barty wasn’t looking at Regulus. ‘You… erm… look good, Evan.’
‘Thanks, James. You do too.’ Was Evan flirting? Surely, he had to be. ‘Red really looks good on you, Reg.’
Regulus smiled, but Barty could tell it was apprehensive. ‘Thanks, Evan. Hey, Barty.’
‘Hi. I’m going to use the restroom really quick.’ He practically bolted. Quick footsteps followed him, and he turned to see Evan. Barty pulled him into the restroom, shutting the door loudly.
‘You have a crush on James Potter.’ Barty declared. Evan’s face was fully flushed with colour.
‘It’s not so much a crush anymore. Same situation as you, honestly.’ Barty stared at him open-mouthed. Then he laughed. He laughed and laughed because the idea of Evan with James Potter of all people was so absurd.
‘No way you dated him. None at all.’
‘Dating is putting it lightly. All I’ll say is that our clothes weren’t around much when we were together.’ Barty grimaced.
‘Didn’t need that imagery.’
‘Don’t lie, you think about me naked.’ Barty barked out a laugh.
‘Flatter yourself all you want. It doesn’t change the fact that you have a big fat crush on James Potter.’
‘I do not.’
‘You wouldn’t look each other in the eye. Tells me all I need to know.’
‘I could drive my fist into your face right now.’ Barty tilted his head in feigned nonchalance at Evan’s comment.
‘Empty promises will get you nowhere.’