There was a small cloud of dust that radiated from his head as he shook the leaves from it. Ben coughed a little before squinting through the dust at the person who had come over to help him from his little predicament. The question offered had been tentative as if he wasn't sure how best to preserve Ben's dignity. Truth be told, there was plenty left of it; shame wasn't a word often used in the boy's superlatives. He found himself laughing with ease as he accepted the hand up. He tugged, grunting as he righted himself with the help of the Hufflepuff boy. "Perfectly well, thanks!" he beamed, shaking the mop of curls atop his head once more.

He glanced back down at the broom which now lay in pieces at their feet. Ben winced. "Can't say the same for this one however, poor thing." He bent down to pick the pieces up before straightening again and getting a good look at the boy who had come to help him. Rather like Ben, the boy had dark hair and unusual eyes; a kind blue-grey that in this very moment conveyed mild concern. He gave him a reassuring smile. "Thanks for coming over to help me," he said.

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