Holly did not like ultimatums, but she was stubborn enough to fight through one. The Gryffindor matron might not believe her, but if there was a small chance that Madam Sykes would back her up, Holly would seize the opportunity to continue her story.

"I'm sure, Madam Potts," she said, "that Madam Sykes would not wish to see your good opinion of me damaged. I'll admit that no pass was given, and that it may be a bit past evening, but I could not sleep." She gave a sad, resigned sigh, that in truth was still an act. "You may ask Madam Sykes if you don't believe my word." The word of a girl who, while perhaps not the kindest, was from a mostly-good family.

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