"I can see why," he says in a low voice, just for her. It's the truth, even if it is a touch flirtatious. She's captivating, easy to get lost in, and any one would be happy to be in her presence, scandal or no.

He's grateful for it now. Because it's every distraction he's needed over these past several months that he's ever needed.

They dance through the night. Every time they pause, for drink or a breath, which is infrequent, someone tries to approach. But Magnus is quick to pull her away, act a touch possessively, and when he's not quick enough, she politely but laughingly declines.

The night draws on. People start to leave. The musicians play their final notes and Lucy and Magnus are still left on the dance floor.

He doesn't stop dancing, but hums a soft rendition of Beyonce's "Halo" as he leads her.