"It was Professor Evans," Lily corrected mildly. "And if you consider that 'subterfuge', then you're even duller than I'd anticipated." But here it was. The mask had dropped - at least, that particular mask - and she had something to study.

Too cocky. Too sure. He had no idea who he was dealing with. Which was to Lily's advantage. He reminded her of the Slytherins when she'd been in school - bullies who dominated because no one thought to stand up to them, but with no real teeth.

Steepling her hands, Lily leaned forward. Quick, avid green eyes took him in, examining him, judging him, drawing conclusions. "Do not lie to me. It wastes time I do not wish to spend on such matters. I'll ask once more. Why did you attack a student?"