Ronald Weasley was sulking.
This itself was not an unusual occurrence – for, as the youngest Weasley boy, there was always plenty to sulk about – but the why was a pretty new thing for Ron.
See, Ron had long since gotten over not being invited to join the Slug Club, and he reminded himself of this fact every day. He had gotten over not having the best broom to fly on, not having the newest robes and always being second best to his famous friend, Harry Potter. Yes, Ron was definitely over most of his problems.
But Cormac McLaggen… Really?
Ron believed that his reason for sulking was very justified, thank you very much. He didn't even remember McLaggen being sorted… doesn't know what house he's in… doesn't even know if he's in the same year.
So how did this nobody happen to catch Hermione's eye?
Ron supposed it had something to do with McLaggen's skills on the broom – though his try out was pretty shifty – because it surely couldn't be his good looks. Then again, Harry always said Hermione had no interest in quidditch.
But that didn't explain Victor Krum, did it?
Whatever the reason, it made Ron particularly cross. Sitting on his lonesome in the Gryffindor common room, attempting to do his DADA essay – he could kill Snape! – Merlin, he needed Hermione's help.
The thought of the pretty brunette had Ron screwing up his nose and parchment.
Being second best had never sat well with Ron. He thought that, with Harry having to save the world and all, he would be the logical choice for Hermione. That he would be the first choice in her eyes. Somehow, because he thought that, he assumed her to know that as well. She was supposed to be clever, wasn't she? The brains?
He tried not to do it, but Ron couldn't help himself. There were so many comparisons to make between himself and McLaggen. The only thing Ron thought he had going for him was his personality and heart – and even then, he knew he had flaws.
Why, oh why couldn't Hermione pick him for a change? Why did Ron always feel he was a step behind everyone else in the game of life and love?
Love was the only thing his brother's hadn't achieved, not really, besides Bill and Fleur… though Ron wasn't entirely sure what was going on there, or if Fred and George were just making up rumours.
For Ron, love often felt like a game he needed to win, to be better, to make a name for himself. But Ron often forgot it's not a competition. And certainly not with McLaggen.