closer

chapter 3

-ron
My head in a tangle of theories, I headed for the library.

After being met by seemingly endless rows of dusty books and a disapproving frowns from the librarians, I found her at the back by a large window.
"Figured it out then?" Hermione asked quietly - "I'd hope so, as pre-class studying isn't something I like to pause."
I sat down next to her, the chair creaking slightly.
"I- just would never have expected that. Are you completely sure?" I whispered, voice lowered.
"He doesn't say it, Ron, but it's hard to miss. At one point I thought you might even had..." Her voice petered off. "This is killing him. That's why he's been so hostile in return. But you just didn't know."
"Shit.." I cursed, running my hands through my hair, "I've acted like such a git towards him."

Anxiety creeping in, the obvious problem glared right at me. "That's not it though. We both know it's not normal for this sort of thing to happen here. I've seen.. in Dad's muggle papers.. What would Rita Skeeter say? If it ever got out, and with all the attention he has already - Harry doesn't deserve that."
Hermione looked uneasy. "It's vile, all of it. The way people are treated for being themselves."

We sat in silence for around a minute, until i realised just what I'd done.

"In a week Harry's going to fight a dragon heartbroken and friendless, and it's all my fault! What so we do, Hermione?" I burst desperately.
"Excuse me, not friendless! I actually believed in him." she replied
"Well as far as everyone is concerned you're a little more than friends."
Hermione rolled her eyes.
"I'm going to continue with my work. I suggest you and Harry have a little chat. Goodbye, Ron."
Taking the hint, I collected my things and left.