Chapter 8 ~ Exorcise
Three months had passed until the next time their paths crossed; the Ministry's annual gala signifying the end of Voldemort's terror. There were no warm words exchanged or brief hugs; merely a brief greeting followed by an even hastier farewell. It was an oddity easily discerned by Harry, Ginny and even Ron; given that in the past the two had commiserated for far greater lengths of time and always seemed to have a natural chemistry derived from their love of knowledge in conjunction with transfiguration.
"What's with you and McGonagall?" Ginny questioned as soon as Harry and Ron were out of ear shot.
Hermione shook her head, "Nothing." She tried to remain nonchalant as she in turn questioned Ginny. "Why?"
"Don't." Ginny shook her head, "Even try." She pulled Hermione's arm to her as she stepped closer. "Remember it's me." She hissed, "Not Harry, Ron, or anyone else; but me. Now, what gives?"
"We…I…" She pushed the tears away, trying to focus on her life now. "It really doesn't matter Gin."
"It matters to me."
"Well," Hermione let her gaze sweep across the expanse and stop upon the woman who no matter how hard she tried to exorcise from her heart; remained. "It doesn't to me."
Ginny stared at her friend and felt her heart sink, she seemed so unhappy. "I still don't believe you," Her comment drew a piercing stare from brown eyes. "Just remember if you ever need to talk…"
"Thank you, dear." She whispered, beginning to adopt one of many phrases from the woman who was so much more than a mentor but dare she utter the word, was once a friend. Ron and Harry returned only moments later, and only twice more throughout the night did her eyes search out the ebony haired witch. However, as with her heart; she hadn't been able to find her.
A/N: I never said I had a heart. Though, to ease the 'heart ache' I'll be posting a drabble per day.