I can understand the comment of the other reviewer about this chapter emphasizing that people will be hurt irreversibly. However, this has been painfully obvious from the beginning. Hermione's introduction to us -a shell of herself should be enough. And to be honest up to this chapter I had not fully understood Ron's psyche but he too is hurt. You really have thought through his character. Of course he would turn abusive if he had the impression his wife mocks of his intellect when she asks his opinion about anything-other-than-Quidditch. For me this is the Ron-revelation-chapter (well aside from Severus realizing he is in love...) Keep up the excellent work! A part of me wants you to update soon but take as much time you need to deliver such well written chapters with such human characters!

Author's Response: Thank you, I'm glad you find their meetings so compelling. Yes, Severus does love her, enough to cause some serious thinking in the next chapter. Yes, for the fact this story started out with Hermione beaten down in such a fashion was my signal that things have changed her and she'll never be the same person she used to be. She has lost that youthful enthusiasm that comes with being worn down and tired, resignation almost. And you are very estute. Ron is hurt in his own way, but that does not excuse his behavior to Hermione over the years. But this is his own way of lashing out and trying to make Hemrione feel as bad as he does. There is more to Ron where this matter is concerned, but I can't say anything more right now. Glad you found this chapter so enthralling. I'm trying to keep up the good work, but these chapters are getting harder and harder to write to make sure I don't drop any of the many plotlines I have floating about this fic. I do have the next chapter with my betas right now, so it is on the way. Thanks for the wonderful review - GOOD INSIGHT!