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

|| 27. 'My' Y/N (UN-EDITED)

"Hm, I've always known you've fancied me, Granger." The words were a jest, a playful provocation meant to elicit a reaction. And react, Hermione did, her mouth parting in a momentary mix of astonishment and something deeper, an almost imperceptible resonance.

"I do not!" Hermione's response was swift, laden with a hint of defensiveness

"...It was a joke." Y/N's clarification arrived with a touch of flatness, an amused grin curving her lips as she observed the blush that crept over Hermione's cheeks. It was as if Y/N's words had unveiled an unexpected facet of Hermione's emotions, leaving her momentarily flustered and searching for the right words.

"I... know, I was just— playing along, that's all." Hermione's voice carried a hint of self-consciousness. Her gaze shifted slightly, an almost vulnerable gesture that caught Y/N's attention. A subtle nod from Y/N acknowledged Hermione's attempt at recovery, allowing a gentle shift in their interaction. 

"So... uh, what're you doing in Luminae?" Y/N's inquiry emerged, steering the conversation into a different avenue. Hermione's response was casual, her shoulders lifting in an easy shrug as she shared a glimpse of her current endeavors. 

"Just... walking around, making my way to a nearby cafe." The simplicity of her words echoed the tranquility of their surroundings, as well as the unhurried nature of their interaction, allowing each moment to unfold at its own pace.

"Oh, I can, uh... go with you, I have nothing better to do, anyways." A nonchalant shrug accompanied her offer, her gaze meeting Hermione's. Hermione's nod carried a mixture of gratitude and warmth as she opened her mouth to speak.

"Well, come on then." Hermione's voice carried an inviting tone, accompanied by a gentle nudge that propelled Y/N forward. The snow-kissed pavement stretched before them, a canvas for their unfolding conversation and the steps they took together.

Y/N's hands found refuge within her pockets, her eyes occasionally drifting to the expanse of pristine white that adorned the ground, lost in contemplation. 

"How's Christmas break?" Y/N's voice, a soft murmur, wove through the chilly air. Hermione's response was accompanied by a thoughtful shrug, her gaze shifting to the side as if seeking inspiration from the surroundings. 

"Well, it's been all right.  I usually spend my time with my parents, you?" Her words held a touch of introspection, offering a glimpse into the rhythm of her life during these leisurely days. A subtle nod from Y/N acknowledged Hermione's answer before she shared her own perspective. 

"Same here. Although, I've found myself in a bit of a unique situation – being new to the town and all." Her words were tinged with a hint of openness, confessing a personal aspect of her life to someone who was gradually transforming from an antagonist to a confidante. A quiet hum escaped Hermione's lips, a bridge of understanding forming between them.

 "It can be a challenge, finding your place in a new environment. But hey, that's what conversations with 'stalkers' like me are for, right?" Hermione's words were laced with a gentle playfulness. Y/N's playful retort sailed through the air, accompanied by a soft chuckle that seemed to resonate within the space between them. 

"Hm, my first ever stalker, feels nice." The words were draped in a light-hearted tone. 

Hermione's eyes rolled in good-natured jest, a dance of camaraderie that seemed to unfold effortlessly. A contemplative air settled upon Hermione's expression as she voiced a memory that had long lingered within her. 

"You know, I really hated the first impression of you." Her words were honest, carrying a tinge of vulnerability. Y/N's attentive hum conveyed an openness to hear her out, a willingness to engage in an exchange that ventured beyond their playful banter.