August's invitation to this Malfoy ball had been personalized, and that was the invitation he needed to feel like he had overcome Miss Adebayo's shooting him down, at least with the debutantes. He had also found the debutante to be charming, and was hoping to see her tonight.

A masquerade did, in fact, make seeing her more difficult. He tried to as subtly as possible ask about the whereabouts of Miss Malfoy, while feeling awkward behind his raven mask. He followed some directions given to him by the other guests, taking his time, until Leon shoved him in front of a blonde woman.

August said, "Forgive me, he's very — something. Do I have the pleasure of speaking with Miss Angeline or Miss Estelle Malfoy?"

(He had not heard good things about either of the other sisters. But people didn't hear good things about him, so — it would be fine.)