Thank you so much, pagan!!! I'm thrilled that Hermione didn't seem too OCC to you (or that I was able to convince you that her reasons for becoming as she did were understandable, at least). I originally conceived this piece as a Draco-Hermione story, but then realized that denying Hermione the kind of love she deserved, and instead giving it to Draco (and with another man, no less) would only serve as a fuel for her determination and obsession. The piece came together after that. I'm glad it touched you as intended! :)