By Ron's mid-April trial there was no denying or hiding Hermione's pregnancy. Her well develop abdomen rounded tightly. Marcus delighted in touching it when she allowed and talking to the developing baby. He discovered that fetuses could hear him by reading the books she provided. So, she tolerated it, even when she wanted to smack him. Barnes asked her to wear something that displayed her condition tastefully. Narcissa took her shopping for a maternity dress that ticked all of Barnes" boxes. "I want the visual to make the judge and press sympathetic," he explained. "You come from a powerful family, with powerful allies. We need to paint a picture of vulnerability in your seemingly iron facade. You are not untouchable, he can and did touch you."