Hermione nodded though she wasn't really sure that she understood the distinction. She also suspected Narcissa was making a subtle dig at someone though it was too subtle for her to even be sure let alone figure out who it might be a slight against.
Feeling self conscious about the gesture, Hermione shrugged. "Not to worry. I can just use my expense account. Why not let the Ministry pick up the tab, right? she asked a little nervously. Of course, she would never expense such a thing but the words came out without Hermione really thinking about them or why she wanted to lie.
It seemed her question offended Narcissa. "Well, I wasn't sure if it would be a faux pas to attend without one," she explained. "It is likely for the best to attend alone as I have work to do. Besides, I am not seeing anyone so..." she explained quickly before trailing off.
Taking a sip of her tea, she tried to cover up the awkwardness she felt.