"Hermione!" Jerry spotted the Granger family coming out of Flourish and Blotts with armfuls of newly bought books and waved to them.
At the sound of Jerry's familiar voice, Hermione's heart gave a jolt. She looked up sharply and spotted him across the street. A delighted smile spread across her face, the joy in her eyes almost overflowing.
Without a moment's hesitation, she dumped all the books in her arms on her father and ran toward Jerry. Her steps were light and quick, like a happy deer darting through the woods.
Mr. Granger: ???
"Oh my God! Jerry, is that really you? When did you get back to Britain? I thought I wouldn't see you until Summer Vacation was over! And I..."
Hermione reached Jerry and started talking a mile a minute. She seemed to have endless things to say and questions to ask, her excitement nearly bursting out of her.
Jerry couldn't help smiling at the sight. He handed Hermione an ice cream and said gently, "Slow down! Slow down, Hermione. You're so excited you're stumbling over your words."
"Mr. and Mrs. Granger, it's been a long time!"
Seeing Hermione's parents approach, Jerry greeted them politely.
"It has, Jerry! Did your hair change last Christmas?" Mrs. Granger replied warmly, smiling as she studied him.
Hermione's father was a stark contrast to her mother. Mr. Granger stood to one side with a towering stack of books in his arms, staring at Jerry with a cold expression.
When did I offend Mr. Granger? Jerry wondered.
"I didn't realize you already knew about that, Mrs. Granger. I really am sorry about last time!" Jerry rubbed his nose, looking a little embarrassed.
"Kid, do you have any idea how hard Hermione cried last time?" Mr. Granger still held the heavy stack of books,