Better than me? | Hermione Granger x Reader (GXG) (UNDER EDITING)

|| 32. Don't Leave (UN-EDITED)

The quartet made their way through the school corridors, their footsteps echoing against the stone walls as they engaged in casual conversation. It was during this stroll that a surprising revelation emerged, Ron's exclamation cutting through the air like an unexpected gust of wind.

"You two are neighbors?" he exclaimed, his tone a mixture of astonishment and intrigue. Y/N and Hermione shared a knowing glance before both nodding in unison, their responses accompanied by small, affirmative hums. As the revelation of their proximity settled in, Harry, never one to miss an opportunity for a remark, couldn't help but add his own touch of commentary.

"Maybe it really is fate—blergh!" His mockingly dramatic groan was cut short by a sudden, discreet kick to his gut. Hermione's actions went unnoticed by Y/N, who continued walking, her gaze focused ahead.

"It's a nice coincidence," Hermione murmured, her voice carrying a note of sincerity that contrasted with the earlier jesting. Just as the group seemed to be settling into this newfound understanding, Harry's announcement brought an unexpected interruption.

"Actually, guys, I have to go somewhere. I'll see you three later," Harry hastily spoke up, departing from the group without further explanation. The three remaining friends exchanged curious glances, their gazes trailing after Harry's retreating figure as it disappeared down the corridor.

"He's been doing that a lot," Hermione noted, her tone inquisitive as she voiced her observation. Ron and Y/N nodded in agreement, the repetition of Harry's sudden departures was quite strange.

"I think I know why," Ron's voice carried a touch of knowing as he voiced his revelation, effectively drawing the attention of both girls. Their gazes turned toward him, curiosity dancing in their eyes as they awaited his explanation.

"Why?" Y/N's question was swift, her eagerness evident in her tone. 

"He's found a mirror," Ron stated with a matter-of-factness that held a hint of understanding. The words hung in the air, a puzzle piece that had suddenly fallen into place. Hermione and Y/N exchanged confused glances, their mutual bewilderment mirrored in their expressions.

"A mirror?" Y/N repeated, her voice a mixture of skepticism and confusion. Ron's nod served as confirmation, the gravity of his words gradually sinking in.

"It shows him his parents," Ron elaborated, his tone shifting to one of shared empathy. His casual shrug seemed to downplay the significance of this discovery, though the weight of his words belied the nonchalance of his gesture.

"But I saw Head Boy and Quidditch Cup," he added with a wry smile. As the conversation unfolded, Ron's mention of a proposal set in motion a different tone altogether.

"Anyways, I gotta bounce too," he announced, his words carrying an air of enthusiasm as he revealed his upcoming plans. "Dean's asking me to help him set up his proposal to ask Seraphina to the New Year's dance." The words were spoken with a touch of excitement, a glimpse into the intricacies of teenage romance.

With a final wave and a swift departure, Ron left Hermione and Y/N alone amidst the corridors. The echoes of his words lingered, weaving a tapestry of emotions that ranged from understanding to amusement. 

"Are you gonna check up on him?" Y/N ventured, her tone carrying a mix of concern and curiosity. The question prompted a wry smile to grace Hermione's lips.

"I would, but..." Hermione's voice held a note of sheepishness, her gaze shifting momentarily as she contemplated her response. 

"I need to help with the New Year's party," she admitted, a touch of regret evident in her tone. The responsibilities that came with organizing such an event were clearly a priority, though the undertone of Hermione's words suggested a willingness to do more if circumstances allowed. Y/N's understanding nod conveyed a shared sentiment, an acceptance of Hermione's commitments even as their conversation veered into a more practical realm.