What rot. Sorry, but I don't really see where that kiss came from. I don't understand why you keep making Ginny behave so meekly, so over-emotionally, when you are so faithful to canon in every other aspect. You even had the twins and Ron joking about how fierce she could be when called Ginevra (not that she even noticed when Malfoy did it), but we see no evidence of that in her behavior. Honestly, she's pretty annoying to read about. Sorry; that's probably the harshest thing I've ever said in a review, but it's the truth. I guess it's just that your writing is good enough that I don't understand this fault. Um...in better news...I thought the best part of the fic was Draco's sudden partiality, or whatever, to Arthur. I hope we get a bit more of that. Because, actually, Draco has kind of remained 2D. But again, as I said in the last chapter, maybe all he needs is time.

Author's Response: Imelda, I can take constructive crtiticism, but I do not appreciate the 'what rot' comment. There are politer ways to say such things. If I attempt to defend my Ginny, I'll be shouting myself hoarse, because I'm sure many people feel as you do. However, because you were the only one to really say anything about it, I will answer your comments. I wanted to portray Ginny as a girl, before she was a Weasley. I wanted her to be a sixteen/seventeen year old girl, and I think I've accomplished that. Ginny *is* strong, and she *is* brave. But, I wanted her emotions to come forth and show her inner workings rather then the face she shows the world. Fiery redhead she is, look at her reaction to Pansy if you doubt, but as I said before, she is using her heart first, not her head, and often, the heart leads us down very foolish paths. I suppose we see things differently. I don't see Ginny's personality as a fault at all.

Fantastic chapter. Your Draco is so unusually in character, for a fanfic. He's entirely as nasty as he is in canon--and I mean that in a good way, of course. Naturally we're going to see more to him, because we just wouldn't give a damn if there was nothing else, but because he's just been so traumatized he holds on to this 2D persona. I dislike him as much here as I do in canon, and I hope he develops. I'm sure he will, because your writing is very good. I do have to wonder at the behavior of the Weasleys...yeah, they're good people. But are they THAT good? And Ginny seems a bit too meek. Hopefully that'll change, too.

Author's Response: That good? I'm not sure what you mean. Taking Draco in? I think that *Arthur* is that good. I don't think Molly would have made the same desicion. And Ron is definitly not perfect. As for Ginny, what you perceive as weakness, I think I perceive as confusion. She's dealing with a lot of conflicting emotions now, and she's a young girl. I think she's awed by Draco, and is submissive because of it. She's using her heart, not her head.

Love it!!! Can't wait to see what happens with Blaise...maybe Ginny will try to return his feelings...Draco gets jealous...hmmm...the possibilites for your story are endless and I can't wait to see what happens next! Oh, and Draco reminds me of Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice a little bit =)

Author's Response: Mr. Darcy? Draco seems so utterly... evil compared to Mr. Darcy for me, haha!

That scene between Draco and Ginny in the hallways was priceless.

Author's Response: The one near the greenhouses? I liked it too! ^_^

oh i forgot to say, i love the draco in this story and yes i do think he is a prat but i love him that way. i can't stand reading draco's that seem really out of character. and what i siad about hermione being more receptive had to do with the part in the fifth book where she explains to ron all what ginny is feeling when it comes to being over harry and her relationship with michael corner and alll that stuff. i completely have no problem with writers writing their fanfics the way they see things because that's what fanfiction is all about. so i just didnt want u to think i was criticizing. i love this story and i cant wait to get home everyday to check the updates!

Author's Response: Oh, no, there was no offense taken! I just wanted to try to show you my point of view so I didn't alienate a reader.

My fave thing about this story is Draco. I love the way you have portrayed him. The fact that he is looking out for himself and yet he is so torn. I love the complications that arise for him, no one's life is simple and I often find in fanfics that people make out Draco as being simple. The fact that you havn't makes me love reading this story. I also thought the line about Hermione and snape was interesting... I am a fan of snape strorylines and I can't wait to see what develops between him and Draco or even him and Hermione, not even romantically, but just as story. This is awesome!!!!

Author's Response: Laurels, Draco is my favorite thing too. I wanted him to be human, not two dimensional villan, so if I succeeded, I am pleased. As for Snape and Hermione... I admit I am a major SS/HG shipper... But I'm not showing my cards either way.

I love love love this story!!!!!!! Please let them get some kind of togetherness soon!!!!!!! I want them together!!!

Author's Response: I enjoyed writing it, so I'm glad you're enjoying reading it.

At first I wanted to say poor Ginny, and I will with regards to her dress and hair, but with Hermione as a beauty consultant Ginny was doomed! I really think it's poor Draco in this chapter, alone and afraid to pursue his feelings toward Ginny...and I will also say poor Pansy...why would she waste her time with someone who doesn't want her (no matter how handsome).

Author's Response: Ginny's gorgeous whatever she wears in my mind. Hermione is very understated. Classy would be too generous a word, but dowdy is too strong... Shall we settle for understated, than? I feel sorry for all the characters in this story. Every single one.

I am breathlessly awaiting the rest... I am in awe at the speed of your output and your ability to maintain the quality of your writing. Poor Draco needs a kick in the behind in order to wake up though I suspect that will be a while in coming. Keep up the good work. I am also rather pleased at your more evenhanded characterization of Ron and Harry – the two often come out as crazed in D/G fics… keep up the amazing work

Author's Response: I wish I could accept your compliment, but the truth is, I've been writing this story on again, off again for a good year. I started seriously working on it last June, actually, and the entire story is completed. It's just a matter of getting my beta through them and then posting them up. Yes, Draco certainly does need a good, swift kick... But I wouldn't want to do it. He's a scary guy.

draco's a butthead and he kinda annoys me sometimes cause he's such a arse but thats how he is supposed to be. i know it probably worked better for your story this way but hermione isnt bad at understanding ppl's emotions. she's actually very good at it. i had sort of forgotten that too but i just re read the fifth book and its very evident she's good at reading other ppl. im excited for more chapters and to see how draco and ginny develop.

Author's Response: I write Draco the way I feel he should be written. As for Hermione, I've read the novels too, and I got the impression that she was good at reading Ron and Harry's emotions, not everyones. She isn't as close to Ginny as she is to Ron and Harry, though the two do seem to be getting closer. I didn't forget anything. I just feel differently. ^_^

I love Draco's torment in this chapter. But my favorite line is: "He was a whiny thing. All he did was cry and snivel." Hee-hee! How appropriate...

Author's Response: You've got to love Snape. He's wonderful.

OMFG I love Draco - he's angsty! I can't wait to see more of this and see how this story develops.

Author's Response: Thanks. I love angst,