Hermione had nestled back in to reading that day, and the next day had dawned before she realized that she'd be spending it with Harry. Because, of course, Harry her dear friend had decided that he had to spend equal and opposite amounts of time with his friends that repulsed each other. Mmmmagentism! Hermione giggled at the reference.*
Harry was trying to pretend that he really could study as diligently as Hermione. It was obvious after about twenty minutes that it wasn't the case, and Hermione hastily got out her defense against the Dark Arts book, and began quizzing Harry. They settled into a more comfortable rhythm, but Hermione couldn't help but see Harry eyeing her curiously - and repeatedly. Just when she thought he had stopped, he would do it again.
It was nervewracking.
It was also nearly time for lunch, Hermione realized, as Harry got up, turning to her and saying, "What would you like for lunch?"
He said it as if it didn't matter, as if Harry wasn't saying that he'd put himself between her and Ronald Weasley. Harry was so sweet! Hermione thought for a moment, before abruptly standing, "You know, I have absolutely no idea! Let's find out together, shall we?" Hermione gracefully offered Harry her arm,which, after a second's awkward pause, he took in his.
Together they moved awkwardly down the stairs; Hermione was secretly glad that Ron didn't see them like that, as he'd likely have laughed his arse off. Alongside each other, they entered the kitchen, where Ginevra was sitting, eating a storm as she often did - and there was Ron. Hermione's eyes stopped at him and moved no farther. Her eyes were full - of flame, not tears. Hermione did not nod. She did not smile. She only turned back to Harry and looked at him, saying, "I didn't ask - what do you want to eat?"
"Pancakes!" Harry said with a laugh.
"For lunch! Surely, my lord would prefer crepes instead..." Hermione mocked with an aristocratic air.
"Of course, my lady, of course." Harry said, choking back giggles.
"You'd best be the one making them, as though I am talented in many things, I fear crepes and pancakes both turn into manta rays if I'm cooking!" Hermione giggled.
"Will you share them with me?" Harry asked at last, as if they weren't both waiting for Ron to - as usual- break in and ask what a manta ray was. What was the point of talking about such things if Hermione didn't get to explain them to someone?
*Yes. such a nerd. I know. (Yes, Writer is also a nerd. guilty as charged).
[a/n: Anyone know the question? Leave a review, folks.]