Draco took the hint. His grasp around Hermione’s throat tightened and suddenly Hermione choked for real. She panicked, her lungs felt like they were burning, and his hands came up against Draco’s out of reflex. For a terrifying moment she thought hysterically that Draco wasn't going to let go, and in an oxygen deprived state of madness she was convinced Harry’s laughter was ringing in her ears. But he did.