"A Complicated Web of Emotions"

Part 14

As Hermione's sobs began to subside, she pulled back from Harry, her eyes red and puffy. She took a deep breath, trying to calm down, and that's when Harry's words hit her like a ton of bricks. "I loved you too, Hermione. I was just too broken to see it. But Pansy... she showed me what love can be." Hermione's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with questions. Why Pansy? What did Pansy have that she didn't? Before she could ask any questions, the bathroom door swung open, and Pansy walked in, a smug smile on her face. "I see you're having a heart-to-heart, Harry," she said, her eyes flicking to Hermione, who was still sitting on the edge of the tub, looking like she'd been punched in the gut. Hermione's eyes widened as Pansy's gaze lingered on her, and then she saw the look of satisfaction on Pansy's face. It was then that Hermione realized what Pansy was implying. Her eyes snapped to Harry, who was suddenly very interested in the floor. "Pansy, what are you talking about?" Harry muttered, his face turning bright red. Pansy sauntered over to Harry, her hips swaying seductively. "I'm talking about us, Harry. You and me. We've been together, Harry. Intimately." Hermione's jaw dropped, and she felt like she'd been slapped. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. She looked at Harry, who was mortified, and then back at Pansy, who was practically glowing with pride. "How could you, Harry?" Hermione whispered, her voice shaking with anger and hurt. Harry looked up at her, his eyes pleading for understanding. "Hermione, it's not what you think. I... I didn't mean to hurt you." But Pansy just laughed, a throaty, seductive sound. "Oh, Harry, don't be coy. You and I have been together for weeks now. And let me tell you, it's been... enlightening." Hermione felt like she was going to be sick. She couldn't believe that Harry had moved on so quickly, and with Pansy of all people. She stood up, her eyes blazing with anger. "I think I need to get out of here," she said, her voice cold. As she turned to leave, Pansy called out, "Don't be so prudish, Hermione. You're just jealous that Harry chose me over you." Hermione spun around, her eyes flashing with anger. "You have no idea what you're talking about, Pansy," she spat, before turning and storming out of the bathroom, leaving Harry and Pansy to deal with the aftermath of her departure.