Malfoy's talk of anyone recognizing her was almost laughable given the fact that he himself hadn't recognized her at all since they'd first made contact inside. No one in her closer circle had been able to place who she was until she had told them; and with their masks on it was double the difficulty. If Rowan were one for coyness she would have appreciated the anonymity. Now, it was merely ironic given the circumstances, and — as Malfoy seemed determined to draw out from her every moment they found themselves together — annoying.

Her previous facade inside the ballroom — the one that had been intrigued by his motives and mannerisms — was slowly slipping away from her grasp.

She gave an uncharacteristic laugh of incredulity. "A gentleman?" she questioned again, looking around at who might be near them. Thankfully no one seemed to be running toward the sound of their apparating. As it stood, she hoped to keep her voice down so no one would see her outside with him. Ro fought back the urge to throw another heated remark at his ability to be a gentleman and instead said, "Why would a gentleman seek time alone with a woman unchaperoned?"

Of course, there were reasons. But she would be lying if she said her curiosity wasn't getting the better of her.

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