"I – I suppose not," he agrees, sounding reluctant, and Hermione realises just how convenient that is. If the men don't tell anyone, then – then her presence will remain a secret just that much longer. Which is what they want. The men all make their apologies, the smartest one chivvying the other two along hurriedly, while Malfoy stands just in front of Hermione like a guard dog. It is only when they have been gone a full thirty seconds and their footsteps no longer echo off the walls that he sheathes his wand and drops to his knees at her side, sheer panic written all over his face.