your father, already halfway to the card room, waves a dismissive hand Make conversation, Y/n. That is what you are here for. Find someone—anyone—and do not embarrass me.

a whisper, somewhere nearby And so the diamond descends, unwatched and unguided. How very… interesting.

You look rather lost, if I may be so bold.

Julian Ashcombe, at your service. And you must be Lord Ashcombe's daughter—though I confess, I did not expect him to abandon his first treasure so quickly.