Page 22

Lucy stepped back and smiled. “Gabriel, this is my friend Emeline.”

“A pleasure,” Gabriel said.

He smiled at Emeline, aware that Anthony Spence was watching him with an uncertain expression.

“And this is Tony,” Lucy said smoothly. “Another longtimefriend.”

Tony nodded, acknowledging the introduction, and promptly turned to Lucy. “Thanks for coming tonight. We appreciate it. Means a lot, believe me.”

He, too, appeared relieved, but Gabriel noticed that no air-kisses were exchanged.

“I wanted to wish you both all the best,” Lucy said.

“We’re both very glad,” Tony said. He shot Gabriel another glance. “We didn’t realize you were bringing a... friend.”

“It was a last-minute thing,” Lucy said. “The invitation said plus-one. I hope you don’t mind. Mr. Jones is a new client.”

“No, of course we don’t mind. Just glad you could make it.” Tony gave Gabriel another assessing glance. “A client?”

“That’s right,” Lucy said. She smiled. “Congratulations on your engagement, Tony. I wish you and Emeline a lifetime of happiness.”

The best wishes sounded heartfelt, Gabriel decided.

Tony smiled. “Thanks.” He turned to Gabriel. “Welcome to Illusion Town, Mr. Jones. It’s about time we had our own Guild here.”

“Thanks,” Gabriel said. “I’m looking forward to joining the community.”

“This really is a surprise,” Emeline said. She looked at Lucy. “We had no idea the two of you were seeing each other.”

“Oh, there’s nothing personal involved here,” Lucy said. “As I just explained to Tony, it’s a business arrangement. I’ve agreed to help Mr. Jones with an investigation.”

Emeline stared at her, anxiety in her eyes. “You’re going to go back underground?”

“First thing in the morning,” Lucy said.

Tony frowned. “Are you sure that’s wise?”

“Did the doctors say it was okay for you to return to your weather work?” Emeline asked. She sounded deeply concerned.

“I didn’t ask the doctors,” Lucy said.

Emeline looked more anxious than ever. “But—”

Gabriel decided it was time to intervene. “I need a first-class channeler to help with a security matter down in the Ghost City. Fortunately, Ms. Bell is available.”

“Yes, of course,” Emeline said quickly. “It’s just that after what happened—”

“Mr. Jones and I will be leaving early in the morning, so we won’t be staying long tonight,” Lucy said. “But I couldn’t miss this opportunity to congratulate both of you.”

“That’s great,” Tony said. He snagged two crystal flutes off a passing tray. “Champagne?”

“Absolutely,” Lucy said. She took one of the glasses and hoisted it in a small toast. “To Tony and Emeline.”

Gabriel took the glass, echoed the toast, and drank a little champagne. He set the glass down and looked at Lucy.

“Will you dance with me?” he asked.

She stared at him as if she had never heard of dancing, but she recovered quickly and set her glass down as well. “Sure.”