Chapter Nine: Decisions, Decisions

Hermione walked into the Great Hall, scanning the crowd at Gryffindor table for the face she was seeking out. Having found the target of her attention, she hurried over, tapping them on the shoulder lightly.

Hermione's amber eyes were met with a pair of shocking green ones as the girl turned to look behind her. "Oh, hello Hermione! I haven't seen you in a while," Lily Evans said, looking quite pleased to see her.

Hermione nodded sheepishly, "I'm really sorry, Lily. I've just been so busy with everything that's been going on. Well, I was actually wondering if you had some time to just talk right now. I could really use some advice, and I can't think of anyone better to go to for something of this sort."

Lily smiled, "Of course. I'd be more than happy to help you. Perhaps you can return the favor actually."

And with that, Lily stood, following Hermione out of the room and into the corridor. "I thought perhaps we could go to the library. At least there it should be quiet, and perhaps more private than anywhere else."

The two girls walked on, finally finding themselves at their destination. A quick peek around a bookcase showed her that Remus was no longer sitting at their usual table. "Perhaps one in the back?" Lily suggested, leading her through rows of bookcases and to a small, secluded table. "So, what did you need to talk to me about?" Lily asked, after they had seated themselves.

Hermione blushed. "It's rather embarrassing actually." She ducked her head, but continued on, "I'm in the middle of this situation with Remus Lupin..."

"I knew it!"

"Lily, please, don't interrupt."

"Sorry."

"Like I was saying, there's this situation that I'm currently in with him. It's rather difficult to explain really. Well, you know that I transferred here this year... well, I've been given the option to return home. I honestly like it here, but I miss my family and friends from home more than I can explain. The thing is, I really think that I'm beginning to develop feelings for Remus, but I'm too afraid to tell him. And from what I can tell, he's in the same situation as I am. He's too afraid to say anything because he doesn't want to hold me back, but I'm beginning to think that maybe that's what I need."

"So let me get this correctly. You've been given the option to go home, which seems like a really great thing, but yet you don't want to leave Remus behind." Lily sighed, 'Well, I suppose that's not as complicated as it seemed, but I'm really not sure what you should do. It's obvious that you really like him, but from what I've heard, it also seems like you really miss your home. And I'm assuming that bringing him with you isn't an option?"

Hermione shook her head. That would be interesting, she thought with a small smile. "I knew it would wind up a mess."

"Want to talk about a mess, do you? Try having an immense crush on the most egotistical boy in school."

Hermione smiled, "You like James then?"

"Is it that obvious?"

This caused her to smile even more. "Just a bit. Besides, the description would have given it away if your attitude didn't. As far as I can tell, he likes you too, and that's why he's being such a pompous git about everything. If you can just get past the fact that he thinks the world revolves around him and his broomstick, then you should make a fine couple."

Lily smiled, "Thanks a lot, Hermione." She looked at the clock on the wall beside them. "As great as it's been talking to you, I really need to go. I have a study group to lead and all." She started walking toward the door, then thought better of it and turned around. "No matter what, I hope you make the choice you think is right for you." And with that, she was gone.

Hermione stared out the window for several moments, thinking about everything she had learned and talked about during that day. Once again, she was plagued with the question of whether Remus really loved her or not. Either way, it didn't matter though. Hermione knew what she had to do.

She stood, leaving the library on her way to the Gryffindor common room.

Her decision was made.

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Author's Note: I hate this chapter. I hate it, I hate it, I hate it. It's hastily, and horribly written, and I regret ever writing it. Unfortunately, it was a necessary part of the story, so I had to post it. Bet you thought she was going to see Remus though.

A Preview of What's to Come: Hermione deals with some troublesome thoughts.