I write the text over and over again, rewording it, trying to remain vague but interested as I propose we have a conversation at the next Society event two weeks from now. There’s no guarantee I’ll actually be able to sneak off to do that, but I’ll have to try if I really plan to follow through with this. The alternative is being locked up like a prisoner with a man who runs so hot and cold that he’ll never agree to my release or my capture.

“Fucking hell.” I toss the phone aside with a sigh and collapse onto the bed. “It shouldn’t be this hard.”

“Everything okay, dear?” Lois pops her head through the doorway, and I glance up at her with a smile.

“Yes, of course. I’m just… having a moment.”

“We all do.” Her eyes crinkle with amusement. “Your friends are here for afternoon tea.”

“Oh.” I spring up eagerly. “Thank you so much.”

She beams at my eagerness, the first she’s seen in days. I’ve been sleeping far too much and have been less than excited about all the delicious food she prepares, which I feel guilty about. But I just haven’t felt like myself.

Getting up, I follow Lois out the doorway and down to the sitting room, where Solana and Georgie are waiting for me. They’re studying the cute little towers of pastries and finger sandwiches Lois has prepared for today, quietly bickering about who gets what.

“There are plenty more in the kitchen,” Lois assures them with a laugh before she takes her leave. “I always make way too much.”

They thank her, and their gazes snap to me as I join them.

“Hey.” Solana pulls me in for a hug first, followed by Georgie, who then holds me at arm’s length.

“Are you okay?”

“Of course.” I force a smile. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

He bites his lip in that way he does when he’s concerned. “You just… look a little pale.”

“It’s nothing.” I wave it off. “I’ve just been feeling bleh this week.”

“Well, you’re going to love this creepy-ass gift from Madame Dubois then.” Solana chuckles as she hands me a brown paper bag. “She insisted I must bring this to you.”

“Oh, God, what is it?” I peek inside and take a sniff.

“Ginger tea,” Solana informs me. “She said she had a feeling you’d need it.”

“Huh?” I murmur, my brow furrowing.

“I’m telling you, that woman scares the bejeezus out of me.” Georgie shudders. “I kid you not, last week she brought me a box of Band-Aids. Two hours later, I sliced my thumb clean open with a pair of shears.”

“Told you she was the real deal.” Solana snorts. “And here everyone thought I was crazy for bringing her into the shop.”

“Well, please thank her for me.” I set the tea aside absently.