Author's Note: I have a plot bunny in my head, but it'll take another chapter or so to get there. Much love and appreciation to everyone who reviewed and marked this story as a favorite.

"First Name Basis"

Hermione sighed, looking around the library warily as she walked to her favorite table. Ron had been on her case again lately about why she wouldn't date him. She was so close to just screaming out that she was gay. From what she could tell, the magical community was no better than the muggle about homosexuality. Bookworm that she was, Hermione had read countless accounts of attempts to use spells, hexes and potions to 'cure' gay men, lesbians, transgender people and others who didn't fit the societal standard of what was 'natural.' From what she'd been able to find, Hermione knew that it was prudent of her to remain in the closet, at least until she was done with school.

Sitting down and adjusting her uniform skirt, Hermione pulled out her Charms text and began reading, hoping it would distract her.

"You okay, Granger?"

Hermione looked up sharply and, seeing Pansy standing across the table, shrugged. "I've been better, I suppose. What's it to you, Parkinson?"

She looked down at her book, wishing Pansy would leave her alone. Since their little chat a few weeks ago, Hermione had begun to see the dark-haired girl in a different light. It was frustrating in more ways that she was comfortable admitting, knowing that Pansy was gay, too.

Pansy put her books down on the table. "Look, Granger, I know this is hard for you to believe, but I'm just asking because I want to know. There's no ulterior motive to spread rumors that the 'Golden Trio' is having trouble in paradise or whatever. I told you aren't the only one here. I went out on a limb," Pansy looked away as Hermione glanced up. "I just want to make sure you're alright. I know being closeted sucks."

Hermione started to reply when Pansy paused, but the other girl shook her head.

"Publically, I still hate you. I have to. You're Hermione bloody Granger. But," Pansy looked away again and Hermione saw that her face was slightly drawn in discomfort, "if you need someone to talk to, owl me. I won't lie to you; I wouldn't mind having someone to talk to as well. Think about it." Pansy picked up her books and walked away, settling at a table barely in sight of where Hermione was sitting.

A bit shell shocked, Hermione resumed reading for class, unsure of what else to do. After a few hours, having exhausted everything she could do to distract from what had transpired, Hermione looked over to see that Pansy was still in the library, writing furiously on a scroll. Watching her for a minute, Hermione took in the dark bobbed hair, the gray-green eyes and the pale skin that were Pansy's trademark. She was scowling and looking between an open book and her writing.

Hermione did find the Slytherin girl attractive. And her recent actions showed she at least felt some kinship to Hermione, so maybe – NO! Hermione shook her head, knowing it was foolish to wonder if Pansy liked her. There was no way to know. Unless… Hermione looked over again and smiled, seeing that Pansy was chewing absentmindedly on her quill. Not really thinking, she stood and walked over to Pansy's table.

"Hey," she said softly, feeling her stomach flip when Pansy looked up and smiled at her.

"Granger," Pansy nodded, still smiling.

At this, however, Hermione frowned. "If we're going to talk, when it's just us, I'd prefer if you called me Hermione."

"That's not unreasonable. You'll call me Pansy, then?" The Slytherin girl cocked her head to the side.

"I will. Are you free tomorrow night?" Hermione stood with her arms folded, but a smile tugged at her lips.

"After ten, yes. "

"Meet me here?"

Pansy nodded, "I'll see you then, Hermione."