The Harry Potter universe and its characters are the sole property of J. K. Rowling. By using them below, I am in no way claiming ownership.
McGonagall sipped her tea quietly, her gaze scanning the paper in front of her. Hermione sat on the opposite side of the desk, becoming increasingly worried that the review would not be favourable. The professor placed her teacup down and interlaced her fingers, her expression unreadable.
'Well?' Hermione asked, excited and anxious all at once.
'The Power of Persuasion...' McGonagall quoted the title. The article was one of Hermione's proudest achievements, retelling hers and Draco's journey with the Grendelmage journal. Naturally, some of the less ethical and PG portions had been modified or cut-out altogether. Draco had proof-read and fiddled the piece further, running with Hermione's idea to suggest their growing feelings for one another before shattering the readers' impressions. The article itself persuaded the readers to believe in a romance between Draco and Hermione which did not exist. Of course, it wasn't how Hermione really felt... but the other students could try and separate the reality from the fiction for themselves. It would at least be easy for her to convince Ron and Harry of her faithfulness to Gryffindor with its publication, while Draco could also restore his reputation. 'You know, Miss Granger, I think I like it.'
THE END
Author's note: If you've enjoyed this and have the time, I would really appreciate a review/pm - what did you like? What didn't you like? I can then tailor my next work to what people enjoy.
Want more? Check out Hermione Granger and the Yule Review.