Vera listened intently as Mr. Griffith spoke, her interest deepening with each revelation. His candidness was refreshing, a stark contrast to the usual polished and rehearsed conversations she often endured at such events. His dismissal of Mr. Travers’ fantastical request brought a smile to her lips—she admired his integrity in not succumbing to the whims of wealth, something she rarely encountered among her peers.

When he handed her the small metallic card, its inscription shifting magically before her eyes, she couldn’t help but be impressed. It was a simple yet elegant piece, much like the man himself. “Thank you, Mr. Griffith,” she said, accepting the card with a graceful nod. “I appreciate the gesture. Should I ever need something truly extraordinary, I will be sure to seek you out.”

She noticed Mr. Travers glowering at them from across the room, his expression a mixture of indignation and frustration. The sight amused her, and she fought to suppress a laugh. How typical, she thought, that a man like Mr. Travers would find himself so easily slighted.

Turning her attention back to Samuel, Vera allowed a touch of playful mischief to enter her voice as she replied to his question. “Ah, the soiree. It’s lovely, as one might expect from the Malfoys. The ballroom is exquisite, the company even more so.” Her eyes flickered with amusement as she added, “Though, to be perfectly honest, these events do have a tendency to blend together after a while. A never-ending parade of familiar faces, tiresome small talk, and the occasional scandal to keep things interesting.”

She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice as if sharing a secret. “But I must admit, tonight has been rather enjoyable, especially now that I find myself in such intriguing company. It’s not every day I have the pleasure of conversing with someone who isn’t solely concerned with the latest fashion or the next big match.”