Grace gave a half-hearted shrug. “I don’t mind. It’s rather pleasant having a few moments’ respite from all the politics and bickering.”

“I can imagine.” I frowned. “No, wait. I don’t think I can.”

I swear, I thought for a second she might laugh, but she kept that same stone face she excelled at.

“It’ll all be over soon, which is why I came to see you. Mei and I have been talking to all of the other lesser immortals today. The day after tomorrow, a corporate demon named Ephraim will be making his final decision on who will replace Jerome.”

A cold lump settled into my stomach. “So soon?”

“Hell doesn’t like to waste time and resources.”

“I guess not.”

“Ephraim’s already in the area and may come speak to you as he attempts to assess the situation. He’ll want to know about your job, how things ran under Jerome, etc.”

With each word, my spirits sank further and further. My window to find Jerome was shriveling up. We were going to get a new archdemon anytime now.

“Don’t be afraid to speak the truth,” she advised. “I know that’s often a concern among lesser immortals, for fear of causing offense.”

“Something like that,” I muttered, thinking of Nanette.

“Clearly, you don’t want to actively anger Ephraim, but he has no affiliations with anyone currently involved in the dispute here. He won’t punish you for stating your opinion.”

“I’m guessing he might not listen to it either.”

There it was. A tiny quirky of her lips, gone so quickly that I wasn’t even sure I saw it. She rose from the sofa and absentmindedly tugged on her blazer. It was deep, deep red, paired with sleek black trousers and patent leather heels. Underneath the collar of her coat, I caught a glimpse of that same chunky necklace she’d worn at the meeting. I recalled Mei’s sleeker one and couldn’t resist my next words.

“This may sound weird . . . but I can’t help but notice you and Mei are dressing differently lately.” As soon as I said that, I hoped she wouldn’t get mad at me essentially calling her and Mei copycats. Fortunately, she remained as blasé as usual.

“In these times, it’s wise to distinguish yourself. None of our jobs are secure right now.”