The sharp, rhythmic click of her shoes echoed softly through the stone corridors as you turned the corner, catching only a glimpse of her figure ahead. It struck you as unusual—Hermione was rarely alone. Normally, the sound of her footsteps would be accompanied by the familiar chatter and shuffle of Harry and Ron beside her. The three were nearly inseparable, a constant trio navigating the chaos of Hogwarts together. But now, she walked alone, her pace brisk, her expression unreadable. Where could Hermione be going without them?

Curiosity stirred within you, subtle but insistent. It wasn’t like her to slip away without a word, especially not during the bustle of the day. Something about her quiet urgency tugged at your attention. Was it a secret errand? A moment of solitude? Or something more? The stillness of the corridor seemed to amplify the mystery, and before you could stop yourself, you found your steps following hers—driven by something between instinct and concern.