Hermione stepped out the fireplace and into the Burrow. She took a deep breath and smiled genuinely. The place still smelled of cooking from breakfast and she could hear Mrs. Weasley in the kitchen.
Hermione walked toward the kitchen. "Hello, Mrs. Weasley," she greeted the woman softly so she didn't startle her.
Jumping slightly, Mrs. Weasley turned toward her. "Oh! Hello, dear!" She smiled warmly. "What brings you by?"
"Oh, I just wanted to visit," Hermione said in an off-handed way.
"Is Severus with you?" Mrs. Weasley asked in a tight voice. The woman managed to continue to smile.