Severus opened and closed his mouth, looking like he didn't know what to say. He just stared at Harry, a thoughtful look on his face. "Let's address the issue with Weasley and Granger first," he said, "they are the least complicated problem. First off, you shouldn't let that know-it-all's ego get to you, your marks are entirely your own success; as you well know. If she cannot handle a little friendly competition, then so be it. That is her problem. You have become a very bright young man, and I am proud to have been given the chance to call you family. As for Mr. Weasley, that boy has problems of his own. He should not be so judgmental of other people." Snape sneered. "You have become a bright young man, Harry. I should think you would know when it's time to lose the people that refuse to support you. Ron Weasley is nothing but a leech of a boy who has done nothing but cling to your fame in the hope that it would make him a more important person. I have never seen him give any effort in your adventures that would benefit either himself or Miss Granger. She, at least, I can see getting over the academic issue and standing behind you, once she gets her head out of her rear end, but Ronald, I fear, is a lost cause, Harry. I know it's not what you want to hear, but you would not have come to me if you did not want the truth."