We stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity. Finally, I answered, “No, I’m sorry. I don’t remember you.”

I really didn’t remember him. In truth, he did not have unforgettable features, unlike de Grave, though he was attractive, in his own way. I was floored that he remembered me.

I felt I had to defend my chaperon, Lady Huxtable. “Lady Huxtable couldn’t attend tonight as she is home recovering from a bad cold. She is still my chaperon, mine and Izzie’s now, and she isn’t as bad as she seems. Lady Huxtable was good friends with my mother growing up, and after my parents died she became my guardian.”

He leaned in close just then, a mischievous glow in his eyes, and whispered, “Can you keep a secret?”

Curious, I found myself leaning towards him, too. “Yes…”

“All right, but you must promise not to breathe a word to anyone.”

“Go on! Tell me,” I hissed.

“Well, all right. We have a nickname for her, in the gentleman’s club. We call her the ‘Dragon.’”

Despite myself, I began giggling.