Pairing: RemusHermione
Prompt: 968. Flat Line
Word count: 232
Flat Line
"I've already told you, Hermione, it's not going to happen."
Remus watched as the young woman bit her lip, fighting back tears. Not so long ago she had confessed her feelings for him, catching him off guard. Yes, she was of age now, but she had been his thirteen year old student once.
"But –"
Remus sighed, closing his eyes to give himself a few moments to gather his thoughts. "Hermione, it just can't be."
"You don't love me, do you?" He had never see Hermione so vulnerable before. Normally she kept a strong, intelligent head on her shoulders, and put personal matters to the side. This, however, seemed to be affecting her greatly. "You can tell me."
He hesitated for a brief moment, and then said, "Sorry, Hermione."
A tear trickled down her cheek. "Will you change your mind?"
"I'm sorry," he repeated. "That's the flat line. I-I have feelings for someone else."
Hermione's gazed settled on where Tonks was in the next room, laughing with the Weasley family. She nodded. "I understand." She gave him a brief smile and joined the others in the living room.
Remus sighed. It is for the best, he told himself. I can't do it, no matter how much I want it. He watched her through the archway. Maybe one day, but not today. He had to draw the line. It was for the best.
This pairing was requested by Starrya47.
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