Hermione: "..."
She had imagined all sorts of possibilities.
For instance, this girl with Veela blood might be proud and haughty, having heard of the "Witch" and come to challenge her, determined to prove who was the best witch of their generation.
Or perhaps she had come to fish for information about the second task.
Hermione had even prepared herself for a sudden duel.
Instead...
Fleur Delacour had delivered the most fangirlish request in the coolest tone.
"...I'd like a signed photo with you!"
The air seemed to freeze for a moment.
Even Krum and the others eavesdropping nearby looked momentarily stunned.
Hermione blinked, making sure she had heard correctly.
Looking into Fleur's sparkling eyes, brimming with anticipation, she couldn't help twitching the corner of her mouth.
Still, Fleur's attitude was sincere, her gaze earnest, and Hermione wasn't unreasonable.
"Sure." She nodded.
A radiant smile instantly blossomed across Fleur's face. She fumbled out a Magic Camera and handed it to someone beside her.
Then she sidled up to Hermione and pressed her cheek against hers.
With a click, the Magic Camera spat out a photograph.
Once she had the photo, Fleur carefully tucked it away, a satisfied blush still lingering on her face.
Noticing Hermione's rather odd look, she explained a little sheepishly:
"Actually...ever since I found out we were coming to Hogwarts for the exchange, I've kept my camera with me. I've heard so much about you, Miss Granger. You're the witch I admire most!"
So this "chance encounter" had been planned all along.
Harry, Ginny, and Draco suddenly understood.
Watching this imposing, aloof beauty who had seemed so unapproachable just moments ago now clutching a photograph and grinning like an ordinary fangirl gave all three of them a peculiar feeling.
But on second thought, it made perfect sense.