It was for the best their only witness was a cat. The fact that they were returning to the common room together after hours would be enough to raise a few eyebrows, not to mention their accidental finger brush and subsequent embarrassment. Ned was prepared to play it off, as long as Alice did, but it certainly hadn't felt like 'just nothing.' Not that he would voice that.

"I think you're right. I suppose that's just the side effect of being centuries old," he attempted to joke, but it came out a little flat, his thoughts preoccupied elsewhere. When Alice made her excuse to leave, Ned gave her a simple nod, "I suppose it would be wise to at least snatch some sleep. I'll probably be sitting up for a little longer." He gestured toward one of the chairs near what remained of the fire. After rounds, he usually sat and read for a short while until he felt tired enough to retire to bed. He didn't wish to keep the others up with his wand light.