Hermione paused outside of Harry's door, running her palm over her ponytail, making sure it was neat, and smoothing her skirt down. Professional, on Ministry business- her whole demeanor testified. Satisfied she looked presentable and not at all annoyed at being made a last minute, dubiously willing addition to the gala planning committee after Eloise Midgen had begged off- with only weeks to go!- Hermione lifted her hand and rapped on the door's frame before poking her head in.
"Harry, have you got a minute?"
She shifted the pile of parchment in her hands, desperately hoping he'd say yes. He looked busy, but maybe he'd welcome a moment of interruption? Or at least wouldn't hex her for bothering him, which was what Draco Malfoy had threatened when she'd stopped by the Wizengamot headquarters earlier.
Smiling brightly, Hermione widened her eyes in a way she knew to be effective with Harry, not feeling the least bit guilty at manipulating him in this fashion. There were times when she figured it was acceptable to bank on old friendships.