Wonderful. It was all Bellatrix could do not to roll her eyes at her mother's interjection. It was inevitable that they would encounter one another at some point during the evening, but she had optimistically hoped that it would be later rather than sooner. If ever there were a case for renewed pessimism, it was the incessant blonde's approach. She tolerated the affectionate gesture only because more problems would have arisen from rejecting it, regarding her mother coolly despite the professed warmth. Mercifully, Druella directed her attention to Rodolphus, delaying the inquiries that were certain to follow as the evening progressed.
Had she paid attention to their exchange, she would have noted its awkwardness, but she chose to spend her few remaining moments of peace casting her gaze heavenward in askance. When no one heeded her call and she was forced to endure mother's attention again, she reluctantly tore her eyes away and managed an indifferent expression. "Well enough," She replied crisply, taking the suggestion as an opportunity to walk toward the ballroom without waiting for either of them, only to be stopped in her tracks when she realized she had another obligation. With the barest glance over her shoulder, she fulfilled it curtly. "Happy birthday." With nary another word, she strode purposefully into the house.