分卷阅读23（2 / 2）

“But this is a good thing. You’re doing good.”

“People will find a way to twist it so I’m the bad guy again.”

“But maybe they won’t. Maybe they’ll see how much you’ve changed.” To Draco’s surprise, Luna reached across the table and put her hand over his. “Because you have. I can see it.”

Draco pressed his lips into a tight line and slowly pulled back his hand.

“I’ve thought about it,” he said quietly, staring at his cup. “I thought about making my involvement public, but…people will just think I’m doing this to restore my reputation. I would have to justify myself over and over again. But you know what? I’m done chasing after people who don’t want me.”

Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw Luna nodding, her expression uncharacteristically serious.

“You’ve been through a lot,” she said.

“We’ve all been through a lot. And I’m responsible for so many—”

“It’s in the past, Draco,” she interrupted him. “Like I said, you’ve changed.” She took another sip of her lemonade, her eyes suddenly twinkling. “That’s what I wanted to talk about.” Draco raised an eyebrow. “I want to help.”

“What?”

“I’d like to volunteer.”

“But…aren’t you busy with the Quibbler?”

Luna shrugged. “Yeah, but I’ve got enough free time and I’d rather do something useful with it. Unless you think I’m not qualified?”

“Um…that depends.” Draco cleared his throat. “What did you have in mind?”

“Oh, I’ve got lots of ideas,” Luna exclaimed, leaning forward. “I’d really like to teach the kids about all different kinds of magical creatures and Muggle animals. I’ve been doing a lot of reading and it’s fascinating. Oh, and I also thought it might be really cool to do some Muggle baking with them. Hermione showed me and it’s so much more fun than our way. Oh, OH, and I was thinking about swimming lessons and some Muggle sports!”

After his initial shock, Draco couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm. “It’s an infant school, not the Triwizard Tournament,” he sniggered. “But your ideas don’t sound too bad. I think they might like it.”

“Am I hired, then?”

Draco discreetly bit the inside of his cheek, which Luna seemed to notice.

“I won’t tell anyone about you. I promise,” she said.

Draco let out a sigh, hoping he wouldn’t regret this decision. “Alright. Meet me there on Tuesday at nine. I’ll show you around and introduce you to the others.”