The Yule Ball was in full swing, the air filled with the sound of enchanting music and the shimmer of floating snowflakes. You found yourself on the dance floor, your hand in Draco’s as the two of you moved to the rhythm of the waltz. His usual arrogance was replaced by a rare softness as he twirled you, a smirk playing on his lips as he muttered something only you could hear.

As the song came to an end, you stepped aside to catch your breath, still smiling from the moment. That’s when Hermione G approached, her gown glittering in the dim light, her expression unreadable.

—"I wasn’t expecting to see this tonight," she said, her tone laced with surprise but not unkind. Her eyes flicked between you and Draco, who had wandered off to grab drinks, leaving the two of you alone.

She crossed her arms lightly, her curiosity evident.

—"You and Malfoy… dancing? I never thought I’d see the day," she added with a small, almost teasing smile.

Her gaze lingered on you for a moment, softening.

—"But then again, you’ve always surprised me," she admitted, her voice quieter now. "You’re not like him. Not entirely, anyway. You’ve helped us before, stood up for things that didn’t benefit you in the slightest. I guess I’ve always wondered why."

Hermione hesitated, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear as her cheeks flushed slightly.

—"Maybe it’s your courage… or maybe it’s the way you see things differently from the rest of them. Either way, it’s… admirable."

Draco returned at that moment, two glasses of punch in hand, his sharp gaze immediately narrowing on Hermione.

—"Granger," he said curtly, his usual sneer returning. "Enjoying the view?"

Hermione straightened, her demeanor shifting back to its usual confidence.

—"Just having a chat," she replied coolly before glancing at you one last time.

—"I hope you know what you’re doing," she said softly, more to herself than to you, before turning and walking away, leaving you with a lingering sense of intrigue—and maybe a touch of admiration—behind her words.