After what happened in the library, Hermione felt very awkward and self-conscious around Draco. This was a bit unfortunate, as there were only five students staying over Christmas break, so they tended to run into each other often at the library or in the courtyards. And of course, they had to sit together at mealtimes.
Hermione wondered if she truly liked Draco, as a lover. It was usually easy for a smart mind like hers to think things straight and listen to herself, but this did not work now.
Draco knew he had enjoyed the kiss. He was sure he loved Hermione, but what would his father say? And the Dark Lord? He would be punished if anyone found out about his feelings towards Hermione. Snape already knew, but could he keep the secret to himself?
Draco considered multiple times whether or not to ask Hermione out. But then, surely people would find out. Pansy Parkinson above all, who followed him like a hawk. She often hinted she wanted to be in a relationship with him, but he ignored her hints. They were good friends, yes...but they would never move beyond that. He just did not feel that way towards her. And Ronald Weasley the blood traitor and famous Harry Potter the "Chosen One" would know, they were Hermione's best friends. Draco felt a sudden twinge of annoyance. Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger had always been close....What if....But no. Weasley had Lavender. They were always snogging, he had seen them at it. He wished he could have been born into a different family. Then he and Hermione could really do something more, without the fear of losing lives.
One day, while Hermione tried to finish her homework, she realized she just couldn't concentrate. Her mind was clouded with unwanted and unbidden thoughts about...him. He was distracting her. Hermione packed her book bag and got up to go to the library. Maybe a new book would help. Yes. That usually worked.
Unfortunately, she saw someone there that shouldn't've been.