Peace Talks
"Of course, Headmistress, I understand completely. "
"Thank you, Hermione," Minerva McGonagall said, genuinely relieved that her star pupil of six years had agreed to take on the role of Head Girl, not that there was really any doubt. "I realise sharing the Head duties with Mr Malfoy could make the year a little awkward for you but if I remember correctly, you have always enjoyed a challenge."
Hermione quirked an eyebrow in response to the Headmistress whose gleaming eyes had become more mischievous than either of the Weasley twins. She's up to something, the Head Girl thought to herself.
"There is no challenge in sharing quarters with Malfoy. The war is over, we're not children anymore and I am not holding a grudge. I'd like to put the past behind us and move on. However, if he chooses to be difficult then he will find out exactly why I have been deemed both brightest witch of my age and a war heroine, not to mention a mean shot with petrificus totalus."
A hard line pinched Headmistress' lips but there was amusement in her eyes.
"Is there anything else, Headmistress?"
"Nothing in regards to your duties, Hermione. But on a personal note, after what we have all been through, I consider you more a peer than a student and hopefully, a friend. When we are in private, you are free to call me Minerva."
Hermione beamed. "Thank you, Minerva. Oh that feels so strange."
Minerva smiled and rose from her desk.
"As a friend then, as well as out bi-monthly meetings regarding your duties, I would enjoy a spot of afternoon tea with you… perhaps a Sunday?"
"That would be lovely, Minerva."
"Well then, I shall wish you good luck with Mr Malfoy. He shall arrive in about an hour. Please introduce him to Allie and make sure he treats her well."
"I really don't see why you're assigning us a personal house-elf, Minerva. I certainly don't need one and this is the only place where Malfoy has to learn to do certain things for himself."
"I shall remind you once more, Hermione, that the N.E.W.T coursework you and Mr Malfoy are undertaking this year will be extensive. Add that to the rebuilding of the castle which you insist on helping with, your preparation for apprenticing as my replacement in Transfiguration, and he doing the same for Potions…
Hermione's eyes widened in shock.
"Yes, Hermione. Mr Malfoy sent me an owl with a formal request for the Potions Apprentice position last week. I informed him that he must complete his N.E.W.T. examinations with at least two 'Outstanding' results and three 'Exceeds Expectations'. He will have his work cut out for him this year, Hermione. As will you. Allie will help you both with domestic chores that would slow both of you down with such a trying year to come."
Hermione nodded.
"Okay, Minerva. I trust your judgement, even if I don't like it much."
"That is a very mature outlook, Hermione." She smiled. "Tea? Sunday?"
Hermione's smile returned. "Of course, Minerva. I'll see you in the Great Hall at dinner though." She turned to the snoozing portrait of Albus Dumbledore. "Don't think I can't see that twitching lip of a smile Professor Dumbledore; you're not nearly as stealthy as a portrait as you were in life." She said cheekily as she turned toward the door. "See you later Minerva." She called over her shoulder.
With that, the young witch left the Headmistress' Office and headed toward the gargoyle-guarded exit completely missing the burst of laughter Minerva shared with the canvas rendering of Dumbledore.