            "I..." she faltered, brushing at the stray tear rolling down her jaw. "After the war, I felt so lonely, Gin. And I know, I know you and Harry tried to keep me included. But between his auror work, and your school, and Ron’s...well, Ron’s inability to pay attention to anyone but himself..." she said hotly, earning a giggle from Ginny. "I was alone. And then this project started, and it was like Lucius saw me. He really saw me, and he cared. Maybe it’s all a sham, or maybe I’m delusional, but when I’m with him, I feel like myself. Or at least, who I thought I could be."