Chapter 1

She had that uncomfortable feeling once again. The feeling that one gets when being watched. Not being able to tolerate it any more, she turned to the windows but saw nothing except the quiet night sky. Confused and annoyed, Hermione forced the forced the thought out of her head and continued to write her potions essay on 'Disadvantages of Buckmire herb'.

Being the head girl it was very obvious that Hermione had a lot of responsibilities on her shoulders and she could feel it stressing her up very much. She often resorted to having a girl's night out with Ginny to deal with it.

Ginny, who was very supportive and observant, didn't miss the tinge of irritation on Hermione's face, on one such night. "What's wrong?" she asked.

"Nothing. Why do you ask?" Hermione said feigning blithe. She thought that her little problem was too insignificant to get Ginny worked up.

"I know something's bothering you Hermione" Ginny said eyeing her carefully. "You've been feeling very uneasy since the past week and you're doing a terrible job hiding it."

"I assure you nothing's-"

"Even Zabini told me to keep an eye on you" interrupted Ginny.

Now this is too much, Hermione thought. Blaise Zabini should not take matters of the head dormitories outside. Even if he is able to study her mood. She'll deal with him later. For now she had to divert Ginny's attention.

"If there was something serious I would definitely tell you Gin. Anyways, Harry and Ron were saying something about the next Hogsmeade and the teachers not disclosing the reason. Do you know something about it?

"Nope. No clue. But there are rumors that its because of the recent attack on Ernie Macmillan. Teachers suspect the attacker is hiding in Hogsmeade" Ginny replied.

It was very absurd and shocking that Ernie got attacked in the very beginning of the year, when all the war was done and there was nothing to worry about. The students who had missed out on a proper seventh year at Hogwarts due to the war, were given a second chance along with the present batch. Harry, Ron, Hermione, Zabini, Dean, Seamus, Malfoy and many others signed up. Professor McGonagall had ensured all of them were given equal importance and believed that it was her duty as the Headmistress to impart quality education to all.

"Well that gives us more time to deal with the workload!" Hermione said. "And I won't be wasting my time, fluttering away on broomsticks."

Ginny smiled." You can be sure that the boys will not join you. I'm surprised how they haven't been influenced a bit after staying with you."

Hermione laughed and while taking leave, said "I've wondered the same."