Page 132 of Arcane Entanglement

“The pleasure is mine,” the Brute said. “And please, call me Viggo.”

Ginny watched him for a beat. Her face relaxed. She grinned and looped one arm through a surprised Viggo’s elbow and the other through a resigned Evander’s.

“I can tell we shall all be great friends,” she said confidently as she guided them to the other side of the room.

“Miss Miller,” Evander greeted with a dip of his chin.

Ophelia bobbed stiffly. “Your Grace.”

“Have you met Miss Miller?” Ginny asked Viggo.

Viggo met Ophelia’s curious stare steadily.

“I’m afraid I haven’t had the pleasure.”

Ophelia’s eyes rounded when Ginny made the introductions.

“You’re the Ironfist Brute?!” she squealed, instantly casting aside her perfect image of a demure, well-bred young lady.

Viggo blinked, startled. “I am.”

To everyone’s shock, Ophelia grabbed her reticule from the sofa and reached frantically inside. She turned and waved a piece of paper and a magic quill under Viggo’s nose.

“I would like your autograph, please.”

Viggo opened and closed his mouth soundlessly.

“What?” the Brute finally mumbled in a dazed voice.

Ginny turned slightly, shoulders quaking on unlady-like snorts. Evander smiled.

Viggo cut his eyes to him beseechingly.

The mage made little effort to mask his delight and amusement.

Ophelia’s jaw set in a determined line as she glanced between them.

“I know full well that you gave Duke Ravenwood’s footman your autograph, Mr. Stonewall,” she said doggedly. “It won’t hurt to give me one too.” She paused and blushed a little. “I am an ardent fan of yours, after all.”

Viggo squinted owlishly. “You are?”

Ophelia ignored his incredulous tone and nodded vigorously.

“I am. It is my long-held wish to visitNightshadeone day and immerse myself in the atmosphere of your guild.”

Viggo’s eyes glazed over a little. Evander exchanged a startled glance with Ginny.

The effect Ophelia would have if she ever stepped foot insideNightshademade all three of them shudder.

“Let’s revisit that idea another day, shall we?” Ginny said brightly. “How about you give the lady what she wants, Viggo?” She dug an elbow in his ribs.

The Brute hesitated before gingerly signing the note.

Ophelia stared at it like it was treasure before carefully tucking it inside her reticule.

A knock sounded at the door. The butler announced Rufus.

The inspector entered the room. He wore a smart double-breasted frock coat and was fussing with the cufflinks of his dress shirt as he walked in.