Shipping

Chapter 2

Hermione's POV -

Battling the strong wind, I eventually managed to pull open the heavy door to The Three Broomsticks. I was meeting Ginny here, and planned on finding out just how she felt about Harry. I was leaving Harry mainly to Ron, but didn't completely trust his detective skills, so I knew I would have to get involved at some point.

Spotting Ginny in the corner, I noticed she had two Butterbeers in front of her. However, I also noticed that Dean was seated in front of her, and they were engaged in conversation.

"Hermione! Over here." I heard her calling, and went to take a seat next to Dean, greeting them both glumly. I didn't want my project to be over as soon as it had begun; I was beginning to enjoy myself planning out what to do.

"Don't worry, Dean was just leaving," she said, giving him a pointed look. "I'll see you around, Dean."

Once he had left, I felt relieved; I was back in business. I just had to grill Ginny about two boys now, instead of one. However, before I even managed to open my mouth, she beat me to it.

"So, Hermione, any boys on the horizon?"

"No, Ginny, you know I'm not really interested. What about you?" I asked innocently. "I've noticed that you're spending an awful lot of time with a certain Harry Potter."

She surprised me by laughing, before shaking her head. "Oh Merlin, no! We're just - helping each other study. And I know that sounds like a euphemism, but it's not, I promise!"

"What about Dean then?"

"We were just talking about Quidditch. I know that he is still interested, but I honestly don't want him anymore."

Good, I thought. Dean can't mess up my plans.