In the end, Hermione was grateful when Antonin all but dismissed the Malfoys from their presence and escorted her away to another group of guests that had to be spoken with. She felt every bit like they were on some demented political campaign trying to ensure the lowly voters" continued support of Antonin in the next election. A lifetime of similar evenings stretching ahead of her so thoroughly depressed Hermione that for the briefest of moments she worried she wouldn't be able to keep the practiced, insincere smile on her face. Only the reminder that Aberforth's successful escape from the Ministry holding cells was her escape too kept her from cursing herself in the chest. What a dismal life that would be!