Tom could manipulate Hermione. He is a very intelligent and cunning boy. He might see Hermione as a means to an end. Maybe he could use her knowledge of magic to further his own studies in the dark arts. He could pretend to befriend her while secretly plotting to use her magic for his own evil purposes. However, Hermione is also smart and would likely catch on eventually.
A magical mystery could unfold. There could be some dark magic lurking in the orphanage that both Hermione and Tom discover. They might have to work together to solve it. This could be a turning point in their relationship. If they succeed, it could bring them closer together, but if they fail, it could drive Tom further into the dark side, blaming Hermione for the failure.
Another possibility is a scenario where Hermione is on a mission to study the early life of Voldemort for some academic or magical research. While at the orphanage, she discovers some hidden secrets about Tom Riddle's family that were previously unknown. This could lead to a series of events where she has to protect this knowledge from falling into the wrong hands, all while interacting with a young and curious Tom Riddle.
You could also create a fanfiction where a new character, an orphan just like Tom, arrives at the orphanage. This new character could either be a positive influence on Tom, trying to show him kindness and friendship, or they could be in competition with him for the limited resources or attention in the orphanage. This would add a new dynamic to the story of Tom Riddle in the orphanage.
In a Tom Riddle x Reader fanfiction, they could meet in Hogwarts. Maybe the reader is a new student and catches Tom's attention with their unique magical abilities. This could lead to a series of interactions where Tom tries to figure out the reader's secrets.
One possible scenario in this fanfiction could be Hermione traveling back in time and ending up at Tom Riddle's orphanage. She might try to prevent him from turning into Voldemort. For example, she could use her knowledge of magic to show him a different path, perhaps by introducing him to the concept of love and friendship in a more positive way than he ever experienced in his original life.
A lot could occur. Harry might try to instill in Tom the importance of forgiveness. Given that Harry has forgiven many of his enemies, he could explain to Tom that holding grudges and seeking revenge only leads to more pain and destruction. For example, when he forgave Snape in the end.
One possible plot twist could be that Tom Riddle's dark tendencies start to resurface despite Hermione's positive influence. Maybe he begins to secretly manipulate those around him at Hogwarts while still maintaining a facade of being a reformed child. This could lead to a rift between Hermione and some of her friends who suspect Tom but don't understand why Hermione is so trusting.
One possible plot could be Hermione discovering the truth about her godfather being Tom Riddle and struggling with her own identity. She might be torn between her loyalty to her friends and the new - found family connection.
The story could also involve Hermione using her magical knowledge to help Tom control his powers. Since Tom is a powerful wizard from a young age, he might have difficulty handling his magic properly. Hermione, being a brilliant witch, could guide him. This could lead to a unique bond between them, where Tom respects Hermione for her abilities and Hermione sees the potential for good in Tom.
The setting of the orphanage is crucial. Describe the dilapidated building, the small and crowded rooms, and the meager food. This helps to set the mood and also shows why Tom might have felt so trapped and resentful. Also, include the other orphans. They could be a source of conflict or support for Tom. Some might be afraid of him, while others might try to befriend him out of pity or genuine kindness.
Hermione might find Tom to be a very intelligent yet troubled boy at the orphanage. She could use her own intelligence and magical skills to gain his trust. For instance, she could perform some simple but impressive magic tricks for him. This would make Tom interested in her and open up the possibility of a deeper connection between them in the fanfiction.