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The restaurant was dimly lit. The only source of light was cast by a myriad of candles floating in the air and decorating the tables. Harry suspected they were supposed to give the place that romantic feeling – not that he knew anything about such things, of course.
He stared at the man sitting across from him and wondered, not for the first time, if he was completely off his rocker.
“I can't believe I let you talk me into this, Malfoy.”
“You owe me one, Potter.”
“So you keep reminding me,” sighed Harry. “That guy must really have done a number on you, huh?” he added, looking Malfoy up and down. He tried to hide it, but Harry could see he was anxiously scanning the room. “I'm quite surprised you wanted me to help you out.”
Malfoy's head snapped to attention. “Don't flatter yourself, Potter. You're still my sworn enemy,” he sneered. “It's just that a date with the Golden Boy seemed more impactful than Gary the Secretary. There's no point if I can't show off with a celebrity.” He looked away again. Harry could swear he saw a tinge of red on his neck through the dim candlelight. The idea of making Malfoy embarrassed gave him a small sense of satisfaction.
“Gee, and here I thought you actually liked me,” said Harry drily.
“Dream on, Potter.”
Time dragged on. Harry drummed his fingers on the table as Malfoy checked his watch, looked about the room, then checked his watch again. After the fourth time, Harry decided enough was enough.
“Look, Malfoy, the guy's clearly not gonna show. Let's get out of here.”
Reluctantly, Malfoy agreed. They paid their bill and made their way outside into the freezing February air. Walking down Diagon Alley in silence, the pair passed shop upon shop with their windows dressed in pink streamers and floating hearts.
Harry stole a glance at Malfoy. He'd buried his hands in his pockets and hiked up his shoulders. If Harry hadn't known any better, he'd have thought Malfoy was shielding himself against the biting wind. As it was, however, Harry figured Malfoy was suffering from some disappointment. He felt a sting of sympathy and pity towards him. It couldn't be easy, still being hung up on your ex while the other party was moving on. However, Valentines Day might've been a bad day to make an indifferent ex jealous. Malfoy himself would probably just end up more hurt.
Rounding a corner, Malfoy stopped dead in his tracks. Two men came strolling towards them, arm in arm. Malfoy quickly turned his head away, a look of hurt momentarily flickering across his face, and Harry had a sudden idea. With quick reflexes, he grabbed Malfoy around the waist and pressed their lips together. Malfoy's body tensed, before allowing itself to relax into Harry and the kiss.
He didn't know if the ex even paid them any attention, but Harry didn't care. Somehow, this felt just right.