The Gryffindor gives a hearty laugh after hearing about the boots. He watches how Theo turns the fox on the ground into a wiggling barking puddle and moves a little closer.
'I understand it all too well. You know that gramps doesn't make much, between collecting monster parts and our little farm? Despite my parents sending us plenty of money, most of that went into, er... Paying off my great aunt's debt?'
He mumbles on the topic a little, always reluctant to talk about Catrin's disappearance.
'We were saving where we could, and if you remember, and I hope you don't, most of what I wore until recently were hand-me-downs. We couldn't buy anything new. I outgrew all the earlier uniforms too fast,' Meech laughs and scratches his head. 'As far as the boots go, I only had one pair of my size at any given time. Well, until my parents found out and gave both me and gramps a good scolding. Mam was furious!'
His hands itch to pet the creature on the ground but he doesn't dare to come closer until the clear invitation is barked out.
'Sounds like my talks have tired out the prince,' the Gryffindor chuckles. 'Aren't you a fluffy attention seeker? Yes, you are, who else!'
He crouches down and finally pays attention to the needy fluff. Meech's hands are large and calloused, but the touch is gentle and thorough. Years of looking after animals at Catrin's camp and Beasts classes taught him that animals are kinder than humans. A good scratch behind the ear, soft cheek rubs, some attention under the chin. And, of course, the belly.
Demetrius notes that the fox's coat is much cleaner than that of a wild creature. The boy is not as skittish, perhaps he gets plenty attention from other students. Why else is he so close to the castle?
'Theo, have you seen this one around before?' he asks and suddenly frowns. 'Merlin, do we have to fox-proof the greenhouse too now? The bunny corn won't survive such a princely visit.'
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