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Hermione didn’t know when their playful bantering turned into a comfortable silence. Though it was unsurprising.
She learned that Draco Malfoy was an agreeable company when they were alone.
At the beginning of the term, when Snape partnered her with the boy, she was certain they would not last five minutes without one sending the other to Madam Pomfrey.
Instead, she came to enjoy his presence.
Neither one of them felt the need to break the silence with forced conversation. It was a rarity she only experienced around a handful of people. Most, she found, would feel awkward, and prattled.
They walked peacefully, watching the orange, pink and purple hues of the setting sun.
"I need to show you something," Draco's velvety timbre caused something within her to stir.
"What is it?"
"You'll need to follow me to find out."
"Why should I follow you anywhere, Malfoy?" she kept her tone playful. Truthfully, she didn’t fancy the idea of shortening their stroll.
"Because you want to," his gentle smile transformed into an impish grin. "What other reason could you have to follow me into a forest at sunset?"
"Imperius curse."
"I'm sure you'd hex me before that happens."
"Undoubtedly," Hermione returned his mischievous grin with her own.
She liked this version of the boy, unlike the arrogant façade he donned around other people. Alone he seemed genuine.
At the edge of the Forest of Dean, Draco held out his hand. "The path from here is uneven. But it's not far."
“I’m sure I can manage. Thank you.”
He led them through the winding path of trees to the hidden lake. When they reached the lake, it had turned into night.
“What did you want to show me?”
“Patience Granger,” she heard the smile on his face.
Suddenly, a myriad of fireflies lit the sky, dancing above the lake. They illuminated the lake like countless fairy lights.
“I’ve been here before but never seen this happen,” Hermione gaped in amazement. “Does anyone else know about this?”
“This is the first time I’ve shown anyone; usually I come alone.”
- FIN -