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

|| 12. Midnight Duel (UN-EDITED)

"I bet I scored higher than you," Hermione's voice cut through the atmosphere, a confident assertion that drew Y/N's attention. She turned her gaze towards Hermione, intrigued by the challenge presented.

"Is that so?" Y/N countered, a subtle spark of competitiveness igniting within her.

"Yes, really," Hermione's response was unwavering, her determination mirrored in her expression. Y/N couldn't help but chuckle at her unwavering spirit.

"Don't get too cocky, Granger," Y/N's taunt was light-hearted, a playful nudge to their friendly rivalry. Hermione responded with an indignant huff, her competitive edge fully on display.

"Oh please. I've worked harder than anyone else here, and you haven't worked at all. I doubt you have anything higher than a 65," Hermione's words were laden with a mixture of frustration and conviction. She was staunchly defending her dedication and effort, refusing to concede any ground.

"That's the thing, I'm naturally talented. Naturally amazing and a genius. While you..." Y/N's teasing tone hung in the air, her words a gentle jab at Hermione's perfectionist tendencies. The exchange embodied the good-natured banter that colored their interactions, a testament to the camaraderie that had formed between them.

Y/N's gaze finally shifted to her paper, her heart quickening as she saw her score displayed prominently in bold red ink, encircled for emphasis. "100/100," the numbers proclaimed, a triumphant smile tugging at Y/N's lips. 

The satisfaction of her achievement was evident, and the moment was a subtle celebration of her academic prowess. The classroom held an air of accomplishment, and as their interaction continued, it was underscored by the shared pursuit of excellence that defined their time at Hogwarts.

Y/N's gaze turned towards Hermione, who sported a smug smirk, proudly displaying her paper for all to see. The numbers "99/100" graced the page, a testament to Hermione's accomplishment. Y/N couldn't help but chuckle at Hermione's evident satisfaction, rolling her eyes playfully in response.

"What'd you get?" Hermione's curiosity cut through the air, a challenge veiled in her inquiry.

"Guess," Y/N replied with a deadpan tone, her lips curling into a mischievous smile. Hermione raised an eyebrow in response, her expression a mixture of intrigue and amusement. The playful banter between them continued until the interruption of Professor Flitwick's voice cut through their exchange.

"Oh, congratulations to Miss Crimson for achieving the highest score. Not just the highest, but a perfect score! Truly remarkable!" Flitwick's jubilant announcement filled the room with a sense of accomplishment, drawing all attention towards Y/N. Hermione's eyes widened in disbelief, her pride visibly deflating as she let out a series of indignant scoffs.

"You got a 100?" Hermione's incredulity was palpable, her surprise mixed with a hint of annoyance.

Y/N responded with a nonchalant shrug, a casual attitude masking the pride she felt. "He said it. Not me," she offered with a hum, her words a playful reminder of Flitwick's announcement. Hermione's glare only deepened in response, her determination to excel unswayed.

"You'll pay for this," Hermione grumbled under her breath, a hint of challenge and rivalry evident in her tone.

"Make me," Y/N retorted, her response carrying a touch of playful defiance. 

"Oh, I will." Hermione fired back. "Just you wait."

"I'll be waiting."

"Don't count on it."

✴✴✴✴✴

Y/N's footsteps reverberated softly through the corridors, the silvery moonlight filtering through the windows casting elongated shadows as she stealthily ventured out of her dormitory. Her purpose was clear—to assist Draco in his impending duel, a situation she considered rather foolish. The rhythmic, hushed cadence of her steps ensured her movements were barely discernible.