Chapter 2: The Hogwarts Train
On the train ride to Hogwarts, Harry tried to keep himself busy with his new schoolbooks. He was doing just about everything to block out the sounds of Hermione and Draco flirting. After a while, Harry just couldn't take it anymore, and stood up to leave.
"I can tell I'm not wanted." Harry muttered.
"Harry, wait!" Hermione called.
But it was too late. Harry had already made up his mind. He joined a compartment with Ginny and Ron.
"Hey." Ron greeted him.
"Hi. I found out about Hermione and Malfoy. No wonder you didn't want to sit with them on the train." Harry sounded slightly upset to Ron.
"Bit of a shock, huh?" Ron said glumly. "Really though, I think something's up. Malfoy and Hermione as a couple? They've both gone mad!"
"Apparently Malfoy's changed." Harry laughed to himself. "Oh, he's made a complete turnaround!" Harry said in a high voice, imitating Hermione.
Ron gave a small smile.
"Maybe she only goes out with rich, popular guys." Harry considered.
"No, she'll only go out with stuck up jerks. First Krum, now him." Ron had a look of disgust.
For the first time on the train since Ginny's arrival, Ginny spoke up.
"Krum's not a jerk!" she argued.
Ron sighed.
"But yes, Harry, it must be the money he's after. Nobody could like Malfoy for his personality. If money's what girls go for, I'm doomed." Ron said, frowning.
"Ron, a girl should like you for who you are. I don't know why, but I guess Hermione disagrees with me." Harry tried to sound reassuring.
The train stopped and they arrived at Hogwarts. It looked extravagant, as usual.
Just do what Ron's doing, Harry reminded himself mentally, pretend she doesn't exist.
But he soon realized that it was much, much harder to do than he thought.
end