Hermione was met with a steely gaze when she entered the Great Hall. For unknown reasons, even to herself and against her better judgement, she made the wrong decision to come to Headmaster Dumbledore's retirement party. After decades of being a Professor then being promoted to Headmaster, he was finally stepping down to enjoy the years he had left, peacefully, away from Hogwarts. Her eyes quickly scanned the large room to find the wizard of the night. He was seated on the High Table with other Professors.

Her heels clicked with each step, but were drowned out by the huge crowd saying their hellos to friends and former classmates. She walked pass him without acknowledging his presence. It was only over a month or two, she couldn't remember, since they broke up. She found out from others that he met someone, whilst she was busy with her new promotion. Her career filled the void of her broken heart.

"Headmaster Dumbledore," she greeted with a smile. Last she saw him was over five years ago after graduating. Since then, her training at the Ministry took precedence. In her short time, she became Junior Undersecretary, working in various departments to help fill absences. Little did she know how much it would affect their relationship.

"What an extraordinary surprise, Ms. Granger. I've heard so much about your work at the Ministry. You've been quite a busy bee," Dumbledore replied.

"Yes, but I wouldn't miss this occasion for the world. It's well deserved. I hope you have a very happy and peaceful retirement."

"Of course. Please do enjoy yourself tonight."

She turned on her heels, only to bump into someone. His curly jet black curls covered his forehead. His grey coloured eyes stared down at her. Perched between his lips was the tip of his tongue. "Hermione."

"Excuse me," she bumped pass him and walked away.

The huge hall was filled with many students from the past. Some she knew and some she only heard of. His cold steel eyes followed her as she headed towards some old House mates. She suddenly felt naked in her sleeveless white dress. It hugged her body perfectly, and fell to her ankles with a center slit that stopped mid-thigh. She felt chills down her spine, even whilst wearing a black blazer over her shoulders. Her hair was left down with curls, as she didn't have much time to get ready. Her job in the Ministry kept her late and she only had time to change then Apparate to Hogsmeade.

Every turn she made, or steps she took, he was always watching. Their eyes constantly met, but she did her best to ignore him. She put on her best facade and smiled. Deep down, she was still hurt by him. They talked about marriage since their Seventh Year.

Hermione supported his dream of becoming a professional Quidditch Seeker. His first year, he mostly trained with the team and played only two games when their Seeker was too weak and sick after contracting Dragon Pox. Two other players contracted it as well. They won those two games in an hour and a half, thanks to his spectacular play. They traded the Seeker, who was infamous for his off field antics.

Tom Riddle's fame skyrocketed after his second year with the team, when the team made the Championships of the British and Irish Quidditch League. It was said that the Snitch had been tampered with, but it disappeared after the opponent's celebration. He was also known for his good looks, attracting many witches to their games. She didn't pay it any mind. She trusted him with all her heart until one night, without much explanation, he broke off their relationship. He moved out of their flat they shared, whilst she was at work, without telling her. The shock of it wore her down. She never felt more hurt or betrayed in her life.

At that moment, she was too angry and hurt. How dare he act as if he never broke her heart into a million pieces. Here, of all places. She wasn't ready. She couldn't deal with it again. Tears threatened her eyes. She needed to get away. Anywhere.

to be continued, next chapter.