4th July Prompt: Sorry I'm/it's late.
Hermione stands outside the Leaky Cauldron, arms crossed and lower lip trembling. Snow falls around her, and she shuffles closer to the pub's door in hopes of finding shelter under the eaves. She casts a final glance down at her watch. Her patience is wearing thin. Pulling her coat tightly around her body, she begins her walk home.
"Hermione!" Fred is shouting, sprinting down the alley towards her. "Hermione, wait!"
She pauses, but doesn't turn around.
"Hermione..." He's panting by the time he reaches her. "I'm sorry I'm late."
"It's been twenty minutes," she says, her voice tight. Even he steps in front of her and places his hands on her shoulders, she refuses to look up at him. "I thought you weren't coming."
"There were some issues at the shop," Fred replies, apologetic. "Really, I'm sorry."
Without a word, she turns on her heel and towards the Leaky's entrance. She pushes the door open, throwing an expectant look at him over her shoulder. It's all the invitation he needs to scramble after her.
"Don't be late next time," she says, taking his hand hesitantly as she scans the room for a table.
Next time. Fred smiles to himself. It's not the impression he'd hoped to make on their first date, but it doesn't really matter. Getting a next time...that's what really matters.