The clear sunlight streamed in through the open window. Outside, a broad, tree-lined street opened out onto a handsome, cobblestone church. All was suffused with the same glowing light that warmed Hermione's cheek as she sat at her cluttered desk. It was a beautiful day.

She sat back for a moment, looking about herself for the first time in hours, taking in the glorious weather and the rather less pleasant state of her desk. Hurriedly, she scooped up loose papers and a handful of muffs she had accumulated over the day.

There was a knock at the door.

'Time for another?'

Hermione's mother entered, bearing a fresh mug of tea and a kind smile.

'I might need to cut back, mum.'

'It doesn't seem to be doing you any harm, dear,' she laughed, passing her a cup and taking the handful of empty ones from Hermione. 'As long as you don't start adding sugar to them again.'

'Heaven forbid.'

Her mother looked at her for a moment, her smile giving way to a small crease on her forehead.

'It's a beautiful day, darling. Why don't you ask one of your friends to the tea rooms?'

Hermione frowned.

'It's ok, Mum. I do need to study. Besides, I think they're all busy.'

Her eyes betrayed a slight sadness.

'You know, the grammar school we found looked very good. I know you'd find some really... likeminded souls there.'

'I know, mum. I just...' she shook her head slowly. 'I want a change. If it doesn't work out at Hogwarts, I can always go back a year. It wouldn't be the end of the world.'

'Darling, I just want you to be happy. We will both support you no matter what.'

'Thanks, mum.'

They shared a look, and both broke into similar, timid smiles. Her mum peered at the newly-stacked papers on the desk.

'What are you studying?'

Hermione grinned.

'16th century Goblin riots.'

'16th century...?'

'Goblin riots, yes.'

'And, and that's real, is it?'

'Apparently so.'

Her mum was quiet for a moment, the worried look returning. She bit her lip.

Hermione stood up, walked over to her anxious mother and laid her head on her shoulder.

'Mum, I know this is hard to take in, and you don't need to now. It'll get easier. I promise. You'll see. Well-qualified witches have loads of options, career-wise, I was reading up.'

Her mum nodded. 'As long as you're happy, and there really is good prospects.'

Hermione grinned up at her mother.

'Actually, I think I should stretch my legs. Maybe the tea room would be nice, after all? It really is a beautiful day. '