Chapter Two: Explanations

Hermione sat at the Potters' kitchen table, wrapped in two thick blankets and clutching a mug of hot tea in her hands. Ginny Potter sat next to her, twirling a thick ribbon of dark red hair between her fingers. The younger woman stared at the Head, who was seated directly across from them. Hermione had eyes only for Ginny.

"Now, if this responsibility is too much for you, or if you have any reservations whatsoever—"

"Of course I'll take care of her," Ginny said, her voice sharp. "She's my best friend. And I'm quite capable of handling the responsibility. I am a fully qualified witch, after all."

"Her illness is…severe. A professional quidditch player might not be accustomed to the level of magic required—"

"Excuse me," Ginny said. "I graduated at the top of my class from Hogwarts, not to mention the fact that I was Head Girl."

Hermione allowed herself a small smile as she looked over at her sister-in-law. Ginny's temperamental nature was prone to reveal itself whenever someone stigmatized her for being a professional athlete.

"She's a highly capable witch," Hermione murmured, seeing that the Head did not look particularly reassured by Ginny's statements. Ginny turned and gave her a brief smile.

"Very well," the Head said. "Now, do you have any questions?"

"What—Of course I have questions!" Ginny said. "You don't mean to say that you aren't going to give me any more details?"

"Details regarding what, exactly, Mrs. Potter?"

"Regarding Hermione's illness, of course! How did she get it? How long will it last? Will it get worse before it gets better? I mean, what should I expect in the months to come?"

"The answers to most of those questions are confidential," the Head replied. "The Mediwizard who has been assigned to Mrs. Weasley will explain everything you need to know. He should be stopping by sometime tomorrow."

Ginny glared at the Head, but the pale man did not waver. Abruptly, he got to his feet and began dusting off his impeccably clean white robes.

"Now, if that's all, I shall leave Mrs. Weasley in your, er, capable care," he said. Ginny rose to follow him to the door, but he waved her away, saying "I'm sure I can find my way out on my own, Mrs. Potter."

Ginny sat back down at the table. A few seconds later the two women heard the front door slam.

"Now—don't think that just because you're sick you're going to get out of answering a few questions," Ginny said, turning to glare at Hermione.

A/N: My conception of this story is as a series of drabbles. However, please let me know if the brevity of each "chapter" isn't working, i.e. if things are moving too fast or if it's too confusing. I can always turn this into a full-length fic if need be. Please review and tell me what you think!