Later that night, Ron was pacing the floor in the boy's dormitories, talking to Harry.
"I- I mean what am I supposed to do if she doesn't like me back? What would I do?"
"Relax, Ron. I'm sure everything will go fine," Harry assured calmly. "Just be cool and remember that you're studying for charms."
"But don't look at the book; look at her eyes, right?" Ron blurted nervously, still pacing,
"Yes, Ron, remind yourself how much you love her. Everything will go fine."
Ron sighed a deep sigh. "You really think so?"
"Yes. Now go. She's probably waiting for you right now." Harry nudged him and Ron grabbed his books. He left the commonroom.
He saw Hermione.
Ron was stymied. He clutched his books and parchment tighter. He took a deep breath, and entered.
"Oh, I was just wondering where you were. Come and sit." Hermione patted the seat next to her.
Ron whispered to himself, "Don't stare at the book, look at her eyes, and stay cool…" His nerves were really getting to him now. He approached, and gently put his books down next to the fireplace.
"I- I really appreciate you helping me with these charms," Ron stuttered. They moved in a little closer.
"Oh, I don't mind at all," Hermione smiled. "I hope this means you'll stop bugging me during class though," she added seriously, though Ron could tell she wasn't as stern as she'd like to sound. Ron gave a nervous laugh. "Y-yeah. I suppose." They opened their books and unrolled their parchment onto the small table in front of them.
"So, I've been meaning to ask you; why did you and Luna break up?" Hermione inquired nonchalantly.
"Oh, er, she was starting to get a bit obsessive and all. You know, forcing those far-fetched beliefs she and her dad come up with. Like those silly heliopaths and nargles and such," Ron said, his nerves finally receding. "She can be a real loony." They both grinned widely and Hermione giggled. Ron's ears turned red. Oh no. Did she notice? He quickly brushed his hair over them, cleared his throat, and looked at the book in front of him.
"So this first one… is the clockwise movement supposed to happen in the wrist or the whole arm?" Ron knew he was tensing up again.
"I've told you this a thousand times, Ron. The movement occurs in the elbow, and it's counter-clockwise," Hermione explained gently, with a twinge of usual bossiness.
"Er, right. I keep forgetting about that one," Ron said. "Say, Hermione… Harry and I are going to practice for the Quidditch match on Friday. Do you want to come and watch?" he said slowly. Hermione's eyes lit up. "Oh, of course. When do you start?"
"Er- about seven, I guess."
"Great. I'll see you there." Hermione stood up and left for the dormitory. They were both so excited they forgot all about Charms.