Wicked idea? Wicked idea?I think Severus might be rubbing off on her hehe.

Well Hermione is having quite an eventful for night so far. I wonder what else could happen. As for forgiving Lucius, I'm not sure on whether Hermione should, that's why we readers leave it up to you.

Lucius's immense ego made me laugh.  Why does he think she even CAN forgive him and then live with herself.  I don't think I could.

Lucius Malfoy, former Death Eater extraordinaire, comes to sincerely seek Hermione's forgiveness while virtually everyone else (save Severus) in the wizarding world seems to delight in criticizing and/or tearing apart everything she is and does?If I were Hermione right now, I'd be looking for a white rabbit in a top hat and some murderous playing cards.

Oh ho!  It's one surprise after another.  First Hermione realizes that Narcissa Malfoy can be a decent and interesting woman to talk to, and now Lucius is proving to be capable of regret and sorrow for his past actions.I'm glad that She chose to wear that beautiful dress, and the reasons she chose it were all the right ones.  She liked it and Severus does, too!  Hearing Narcissa's compliment didn't hurt either.

I wanted to cheer when Hermione and Severus arrived at the ball.  Wouldn't it be wonderful to walk into a room filled with people and know that they were all made speechless by the sight of you (when you know you're beautiful) on the arm of one of the most handsome and eligible wizards in all of Britain?  Yes!Great chapter, dear!   Beth

But first, Hermione turned her eyes back on Lucius. In a movement too swift for most eyes, Lucius' head snapped to the side, a big red hand print on his cheek, only to have that pain hidden by the sharp kick to his shin before she sauntered back to Sev and demanded to go to Olive Garden so she could drown her frustrations in gnocchi (which is always tasty) and breadsticks!^.^ tada? lulz great chapter!

I so enjoyed this chapter.  Without being a "Byronic hero worshiper," Hermione was able to let Severus know that she well and truly understood all of the personally gut-wrenching sacrifices he had made to defeat Voldemort.  I was touched by how it left him speechless.Likewise, Severus was able to commiserate with her about being a target of bad publicity without resorting to platitudes... he simply told the truth... “The truth rarely sells newspapers.”  He understands from personal experience what it has been like for Hermione to be the subject of unkind remarks and underhanded deeds.  Now they are off to the Ministry, and I would pay a goodly sum to see the looks on Lavender's (and her friends') faces when they see the beautiful woman on Severus' arm and realize that it is Hermione Granger.Thank you for such a fabulous chapter!  Beth

I enjoyed their conversation. 

Wow. What a way to end a chappy! I love the way she stands up for him with out being all sappy about it.5 out of 5

He needed that little conversation.  He needed to know it's not pity or hero worship that drives Hermione's desire for him.  I can't wait for the ball and what comes after!

clever mione ~smirks and gives her a huge thumbs up ^.^~

I'm like a child who just received a muc coveted sweet. I'm so happy and excited.

And they arrive in full snog! LOL :)

You have turned what started out to me a humourous and amusing little story into a deep and meaningful one, full of lovely tender moments.  This chapter was especially delightful!My only complaint: the chapters are not long enough!  I will be on tenterhooks wondering about what will happen at the ball now - please update soon! :-)

Figures the Prophet and the other gossip rags would have a ball going after Hermione now that the nasty business with Voldemort is well over and done with. I'm sure the jealous and spiteful lot she works with has likely contributed their fair share of rumours to the cause of tearing down Hermione Granger. 'Course, Severus is hardly a stranger to bad press himself, and I'm sure the two of them appearing together at the Ministry ball--especially given that Hermione is clearly a favorite target and has been conspicuously absent from such events in the past--I'm sure the gossip hounds will have a field day.Then again, I'm sure Severus is quite capable of verbally eviscerating any reporter who dares get too out of line ... 

That was a very sweet chapter. I look forward to what awaits at the ball.  

Loved that she finally caught on.

I know I've read this one before, but it's a wonderful story and I enjoyed it to emensly when a random search brought it up. 

This story was so much fun to read.  Thanks so much for sharing!!