After leaving Gringotts, Hermione could tell that Harley was feeling a little down.
"What's wrong?" Hermione asked worriedly.
"It's nothing. I just saw a letter my parents left for me in my family vault, so I'm feeling a little sad."
Harley spoke softly. "Where should we go next? Shall we buy books first?"
"I don't mind. In fact, I'd be delighted to." Hermione seemed to perk up at the mention of buying books.
"Today is Gilderoy Lockhart's book signing. He'll be at Flourish and Blotts, signing copies of his autobiography.
"I've been looking forward to this day for ages! From what I've read in the newspapers, he sounds like a truly great man!"
"Oh, really?" Harley narrowed her eyes. "That sounds exciting."
The entrance to Flourish and Blotts was already packed.
Lockhart was sitting behind a table, with several large stacks of books beside him.
The shop was surrounded by witches well over forty, all holding copies of Lockhart's books.
Quite a few reporters were busy taking photographs, too.
Clearly, Gilderoy Lockhart was all the rage, and the newspapers weren't about to miss a chance to boost their sales.
Harley watched Lockhart from a distance. She had to admit, he was quite handsome.
Combined with the life story printed in the papers, it was no wonder so many witches admired him.
Still, Harley had a feeling Lockhart had made up his adventures.
After all, his skin looked better than that of many witches, and the hand holding his quill didn't look like it had seen much combat.
And that dazzling smile was nothing like the face of someone who'd spent years surviving in the wilderness and dealing with Dark creatures.
Then again, perhaps magic was why he'd managed to look so well-preserved.
Harley reserved judgment for now.
"Come on! There