"Yeah, you probably should. But just- be quiet for a second, like I said."

No, that was unfair to say: James, especially under the careful self-scrutinization that sometimes came with alcohol's assistance. He just didn't want to voice it, couldn't handle admitting it to himself more than briefly. This is what he wants. This is more comfortable feeling, more natural feeling than anything else has been, and he's still often torn between deciding if he wants to punch or kiss Malfoy's stupid face.

He drops his own face into his hair, exhaling lowly.

"Shh."