"Ahaha, as a professor personally hired by Dumbledore, my teaching ability is plain for all to see. Surely you trust Dumbledore's judgment."
It certainly was plain for all to see.
When no one reacted, Lockhart hurriedly added:
"Why else would the headmaster appoint Miss Granger as my teaching assistant? Because only she can keep up with my thinking. Isn't that right, Miss Granger?"
I think Headmaster Dumbledore just wanted Hermione to clean up your mess!
Everyone had the same thought.
Feeling mentally drained, Hermione covered her forehead and murmured:
"...Yes, you're right about everything."
Pleased with Hermione's cooperation, Lockhart said:
"I think today's lesson went quite well. We can use this format for all our lessons from now on. With me, Lockhart...and Miss Granger here, you're certain to receive top-notch instruction in Defense Against the Dark Arts!"
We're doomed!
The young wizards' eyes widened, their expressions suggesting the sky had just fallen.
I've got the plant seeds and collected quite a few magical creatures and alchemical materials. It's time to consider breeding and growing them in bulk...
Lost in thought, Hermione found herself at the library.
Since Dumbledore had granted her access to the Restricted Section, she could now borrow any book from it whenever she wanted, on the condition that she not show it to students she considered unsuitable.
For instance, the book in her hands: An Introduction to Dangerous Magical Experiments.
The moment she entered the library, Hermione heard whispers.
"Who's that? A first-year? She's got some nerve."
"Yeah. Doesn't she know that seat is reserved for the Gryffindor Witch?"
"I hear that Witch has quite a temper. She even put Slytherin's Malfoy firmly in his place, yet someone actually dares to take her seat."
"This should be fun to watch."
"Shh, the Witch's here. Shut up."