Hermione stared down at the letter in her hands. The news came as no shock to her, but it was a pleasant surprise nonetheless. She smiled widely, reading the parchment once again.
Dear Miss Granger,
We are very pleased to inform you that you have been appointed to the much sought-after position of Head Girl. Your responsibilities are outlined briefly on the attached parchment, and will be more thoroughly explained on September 1st. Congratulations.
Sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall
Hermione's smile widened and she laughed gleefully. All of her hard work had finally paid off. She became quiet, wondering who the Head Boy would be. Perhaps Harry? He was Dumbledore's favorite. Yes, it must be Harry. And if it wasn't Harry, who else could it possibly be?
Hermione walked over to her desk and pulled out a piece of parchment and a quill. She thought for a moment – Harry would probably be at the Burrow by now, so she would address her letter to him and Ron.
Harry and Ron –
I just got my Hogwarts letter, and I'm Head Girl! I was just wondering if either of you were appointed Head Boy. I'll be at Diagon Alley tomorrow to pick up some supplies, perhaps we can meet at Flourish and Blott's around noon? Send an answer back with Leo as soon as you can.
Love,
Hermione
Hermione sealed the parchment and walked over to Leo's cage. He hooted softly as she unlatched the door.
"Bring this to the Burrow for me, OK? And make sure the boys send an answer back!" Hermione murmured softly to her owl, tying the letter to his leg. Leo nipped her finger gently and flew off into the night. Hermione watched her tawny owl soar off into the sky. She smiled to herself and headed downstairs to tell her parents the good news.
"Well done, Draco. Well done."
Lucius Malfoy gazed at his son with something reminiscent of a smile on his face. Draco kept his gaze down, ever the dutiful and obedient son. The letter announcing his position as Head Boy for his final year at Hogwarts had arrived earlier that morning. Lucius had been extremely pleased when it arrived, claiming that Draco was, perhaps, not such a disappointment after all.
Draco lifted his steely gaze to meet that of his father's. Although his admiration and respect for the man was diminishing, it was in his best interest to remain submissive in his father's presence. Taking orders, however much he disagreed with them, was necessary to survive at Malfoy Manor. With Voldemort getting stronger, Draco did not care to incur his father's wrath any more than was necessary.
"Thank you, Father. I assure you, I have been anxiously anticipating this as much as you have."
"I know, Draco. It is a pity that you have to share this honor with that Mudblood, however."
Draco scowled. It was just like the know-it-all Granger to attain the highest honor in the school. The platinum-haired boy hoped that their quarters were not adjoining at Hogwarts – he could barely stand to be in her presence during Potions, let alone share the same common room for the entire year. Nonetheless, Draco intended to take every advantage of his new status.
He smirked, very much looking forward to September 1st.
"Oi, Harry! There's a letter from Hermione!"
Ron untied the letter and broke the seal. He read the first line quickly as Harry came up behind him. The redhead whooped loudly as Harry came up behind him.
"What did she say?"
Ron turned to him, grinning. "Our 'Mione is Head Girl!"
Harry smiled widely, grabbing the letter. He scanned it quickly, and his eyes darkened slightly. Ron watched his expression change and became concerned.
"Harry, mate, what's wrong?" he asked.
Harry remained silent for a moment and Ron took back the letter. He read the rest and slumped slightly.
"I see. Well, if neither of us got it, then who did?" Ron wondered aloud.
Harry's emerald green eyes were narrowed in deep thought. Suddenly, he scowled and grabbed the letter from Ron, crumpling it in his fist and chucking it at the wall. Ron, seemingly nonplussed, just gazed at him in shock.
"Harry... what is it?"
The other boy met his eyes and muttered one word.
"Malfoy."
