The clock ticked, filling the empty chambers, and the fire popped and crackled happily. Hermione was inches from the fire, staring hard, a blanket wrapped around her shoulders. The heat from the fire made her face feel tight and shiny, close to burning. Perhaps that would be best—perhaps she’d be able to feel something. Her hand crept out from behind the blanket and drew closer to the fire, testing its power, feeling its heat. 