Night had fallen and I was all alone, once again, in my one bedroom flat. I sat sideways on my sofa with my knees pulled up to my chest. I glanced at the coffee table that was covered in parchment and a thick book of Wizard Law. I was supposed to have finished the work earlier in the day, but I just couldn't bring myself to get back to it. What was the point? What good would it do? No one ever really cared in my line of work. Most in my department were concerned more with regulations against magical creatures than for the protection of them. Maybe I should have chosen a different career. I sighed and placed my chin on my knees. Maybe I should just head to bed.

A tap on the window startled me. I looked through the open kitchen and there on the sill of the kitchen window was a handsome tawny owl. I didn't recognize the owl and curiously walked to the window. When I opened the window, the bird gently flew to my kitchen table and waited to remove the letter from it's leg. I reached into the small jar and pulled out an owl treat, which seemed great appreciated. Some of the only appreciation I've gotten lately, I thought bitterly. The owl exited through the open window and I turned over the letter. It read "Miss Hermione Granger" on the front in tall neat purple ink.

Aug. 26, 2000

Dear Hermione,

I saw you today in Diagon Alley, even though you did not see me. I was extremely concerned by how sad and defeated you looked. I saw the paper you dropped near the trash bin. Though I know I shouldn't have, I read it. It hurts to know just how much you've been struggling. But don't, for one single moment, believe that you are stupid or worthless. You are the brightest witch that I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. If someone can't see that, then they are only blinded by their own stupidity. A kind and gentle soul like yours should never have to feel so unappreciated. I truly admire the dedication you have in pursuing justice. And the pursuit of justice is never a worthless effort.

You are not alone in the world. There are many people who care greatly for you, and I happen to be one of them. I highly recommend that you go to your friends with your feelings. Though they may not understand or support your ideas, they love you and will support you through the tough times in your life. Do not feel that life is hopeless. There are always difficult times in life, but life is always worth living. It can't stay cloudy forever; eventually the sun will shine again. Keep your chin up, Hermione. I'll be thinking of you.

your anonymous friend

P.S. If you ever again feel that you can't turn to your friends, I will always be here for you. Just address a letter to "Anon" (for "Anon"ymous friend) and give it to Mr. Florean Fortescue. He'll be sure I receive it.

I was crying by the time I had finished the letter. It was partly because of how embarrassed I felt that someone had read my journal entry. But mostly, it was such a relief to read the words that I begged to hear - I am not worthless and there is someone out there who cares.

I read the letter a few more times before I really started to wonder who the writer might be. The handwriting certainly didn't belong to Harry, Ron, or Ginny. And they were all at work when I was in Diagon Alley. I couldn't imagine who else might send me such a beautiful letter.

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