"A Glimpse into the Past"

The warm sunlight streaming through the windows of Harry's flat seemed to mock Pansy as she sat on the couch, sipping a cup of coffee and watching him prepare breakfast in the kitchen. She looked a bit more like her usual self today, though the dark circles under her eyes still lingered. Harry, on the other hand, seemed to be radiating a sense of calm and contentment as he expertly flipped eggs and toasted bread. As he carried the tray over to the couch, Pansy set her coffee cup down and reached for a slice of toast. "Harry, can I ask you something?" she said, her voice a little softer than usual. Harry sat down beside her, his eyes curious. "Of course, Pansy. What's on your mind?" Pansy hesitated for a moment, then asked, "What about Hermione? You know, back in the day?" Harry's expression changed, a hint of embarrassment creeping into his face. "What about her?" he asked, trying to sound nonchalant. Pansy raised an eyebrow. "Draco used to call her your pet, behind closed doors. I figured he was just jealous, but...well, I was wondering if you ever...slept with her." Harry's face went beet red as he looked away, clearing his throat. "No, Pansy. I mean, I didn't. But...I thought about it, I suppose. Ron had a crush on her, and I didn't want to...you know, ruin things for him." Pansy made a face, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Everyone thought she loved you, Harry. Not Ron, at least not in the way that counted. I mean, she was always so... devoted to you." Harry shifted uncomfortably, feeling a twinge of guilt. "It's not that simple, Pansy. We were all just...complicated, I suppose. And Hermione...well, she was always a bit of a puzzle, even to herself." Pansy snorted, taking a bite of her toast. "Pure-blood men, always thinking they can control the women in their lives. We're useful, even powerful, but always attached to their... apron strings, I suppose." Harry looked at her, feeling a surge of defensiveness. "That's not fair, Pansy. I mean, I know some men who...who treat women like that, but not me. I care about you, and I want you to be happy." Pansy smiled, her eyes softening. "I know, Harry. And I'm happy. But sometimes...sometimes I just wish I could understand the way men think, you know?" Harry laughed, putting his arm around her. "I think that's a mystery that will forever be beyond our comprehension, Pansy. But I'm happy to try and help you understand me, at least." Pansy leaned into his side, feeling a sense of contentment wash over her. Maybe, just maybe, she was starting to understand this strange, infuriating man after all.