"There are some things I do not need the Dark Lord's permission for.  I will tell Bellatrix that-" he broke off as the door slammed open and Bellatrix swept into the room, still spitting in fury.  Hermione flinched at the slam and the entry of the witch who’d caused her such pain such a short time ago, but Lucius’ grip on her arm was reassuring and, to her surprise, she found it comforting.  She hated herself for it, but between Malfoy and Bellatrix, she’d take Malfoy.  For the moment, anyway.