#like the game wants you clearly to follow iris route first with the way it leads you Up to that branching paths point but like.

[chatpileroan]

i am really sad i didnt like playing the somnium files sequel because my fucking god the first game was good. it had its Moments in the fact its both a comedy game (worst trait at times) as well as an extremely fucked murder mystery game but my GOD when it was good it was blowing it out of the park at full force. the villain is a bit cheesily written at times when he starts truly monologuing but he is also kind of a character of all time. the fucking web he weaves.

[hano-orion]

Going to start my second session of AINI, so far my thoughts are:

This is a follow up to the true ending of the first game, as confirmed by Date, but because this game isn't supposed to spoil anything major they changed his model back to the old one. According to him he lools prettier thst way, but I dissagree, stubby beard falco is much sexier than stupid Saito Sejima looking ass

If no paralel time universe shit happened then they just cloned the victim and killed the clone 6 years later, that's my theory for the murder so far

Regarding the branching routes at the start, it's interesting how they just dangle that juicy split in front of yoy "Oh you wanna lie and say you know the kwiller :3 ? Tell me thweir nwame thwen!" I wonder if that split leads to another main branch with its own splits or just the true ending.

I DO NOT NEED OR WANT OTA2.0 ELECTRIC BOOGALOO PLEASE GOD NO WHY THIS ALMOST FEELS WORSE SOMEHOW LIKE AT LEAST I COULD SEE HOW THE WEIRD AFFECTION FOR IRIS STARTED SINCE SHE'S A STREAMER AND PARASOCIAL RELATIONSHIP ARE A THING BUT I DO NOT NEED TO SEE HOW PURPLE GRAPE LOOKING MAN FALLS IN LOVE WITH A HIGHSCHOOLER HE JUST MET NO THANK YOU!!! At least she's (I forgor her name) clearly against it, but I hate knowing that this man will be plot relevant

Also, why is Tama's room a thing? Anyways...

[shy-magpie]

RQG 148

In which a birthday is begun, and a room is searched. Live Blog under the cut

Happy birthday, Lydia! Azu would be the sweetest and most dangerous Ben has a lot of room to talk after his drowny season 1 Alex pretends but he was so happy to see them beat it. Skip past the blobs which were creepy more than dangerous. I love that "I don't even respect your craft" is the most devastating insult imaginable. Poor Azu! I don't think Helen quite clicked before that Alex's favors are always double edged. Okay thats where the title comes from. Oh story time with Alex is sad! Cel loots it. Alex preemptively blames Hamid for it not dropping any good loot then reveals the brain is intact. Zolf, as the practical one I am trusting you to interrogate the brain. Post fight check-ins begin, as Cel prepares to echo Grizzop with the last brain orb full of plot. Skraak is tugging on Azu's armor and holding out the health potion. Zolf heals everyone for 17HP Hamid finally stops being invisible I preferred the few seconds I thought Helen said she healed Cel and Zolf 46HP not 4D6. Helen rolls well for once. Azu is out of Lay on Hands. Its gone a bit meta. They leveled! Bryn snarks a little but I can't make out the line, something about level 10 but loving how Ben immediately offers his protection. Alex jokes about killing Zolf, Helen growls no as Ben yells yes and explains why. Bryn is trying to leverage how badly we want the wings into protection for himself and Hamid. So conflicted: I want Wings of Joy but any route to level 11 in a short amount of time is riddled with 147 levels of danger or more. New spells etc won't take until they sleep. Feel free to describe those at any time! Oh new Mercy for Azu! Hamid investigates the part of the organ the mech tore itself out of. Okay it was designed to do that, makes sense. "Biggest IPod dock imaginable". Hamid investigates the  liquid tubes, it doesn't read as Mr Ceiling. Cel is rolling the brorb(brain orb) to interrogate it. Hamid and Zolf compare it to Mr Ceiling. They roll Perception and Ben gets a nat 20+9. Half of the brain is riddled with Blue Veins. Everyone gasps & goes "ew!". Zolf is not happy about being around anything with Blue Veins. Cel considers how to interrogate it. Hamid mentions the papers he stuffed in his bag. We get more details from Alex: a mix of languages most familiar bits in the most familiar languages, mostly English. Zolf asks if Hamid still has the notebook as Hamid relays this info. My heart hurts at his off hand reference to Liliana; Zolf wasn't there, no one who was there except for Hamid is around! Even Liliana disappeared into Mars custody. Now the poor guy is going to have to decide how much context to give Zolf about being on a first name basis with someone who worked on the simulacrum. Zolf wants to compare the origami with the squid ink to the paperwork. Azu is just going to sit on the floor. Zolf has a rank in linguistics and he can tell the handwriting was the same if deteriorating. Cel can tell its the same ink. Zolf hands Cel the bits in Japanese. Cel gets a 27 to read a letter from the notebook between Yoshida Shoin and Francois Henri talking fluidics and jargon that points towards the simulacrum. Hamid is hanging on every word. Zolf is following. Azu is checked out. Zolf is not appreciating going mentally back to Paris.   I can't follow what Hamid found from his arcana. ~Break~ Hamid mentions the similarity between the simulacrum's circulatory system and the veins. Azu and Zolf race for the knowledge healing roll. Alex is now third person stressed trying to herd these cats. Azu has 13 in heal. Which is 2 more than Zolf. They tease Ben, but I think it was a set up for Helen to celebrate being better than him. He responds by pointing out his class means he is better at healing. Its about as subtle as when my brother gave me every handicap available in our games then pretended to be surprised I won when I was a kid. Alex throws him a bone and points out his amazing healing of Sasha. Azu gets 29 in the heal check. The simulacrum has absurdly more veins than a person. Left hemisphere is veiny; damage between the hemispheres; blue came from outside in not inside out. Zolf is out on a limb but it may just support his weight. Squid tie in Cel is now officially under my protection. I admired them but no one should be stuck thinking everyone has "shut up, shut up, shut up" as a mental sound track. Officially adding anxiety to ADHD in my Neurodivergent!Cel head canons. Cel points to it as being the veins talking to Shoin. Ben gets free info. This doesn't match the usual progression. Zolf proposes they take it back for Cel to build a way to talk to, then interrogate at leisure. He explicitly says he wants to go before the metal squid attacks. Hamid wants to know what else is controlled by the console. Hamid and Cel talk about the "pipe organ" so the others know about it in character. Cel invented the 3D printer. Of course they did. Part of the chemicals go under the base. Zolf wants to follow it as Alex makes an ominous noise. One of the chairs has turned into a slide, Skraak was demonstrating thank god. Everyone thanks Skraak. Azu offers to investigate the body that was in the room and Alex points out it exploded. Helen starts to take it as a "no" until he clarifies she will just have to check out the larger bits separately. Bryn remains a mood, as with Currie, he has so many questions its hard to prioritize. Give us the lore! Cel explains the set up. Brain in orb plugs into the mech which plugs into the dock from which he controlled everything. Hamid sounds frantic. He wants to know how Shoin gave the orders and is concerned about the Kobolds. (way to break my heart: he killed 20 but clearly cares about them. He'll have to reconcile the two soon) When Zolf isn't listening he points out they could order them to quit drugging the Kobolds and lay down their weapons. Kobolds are important Zolf! Zolf tells him to look into that while he and Azu look at the corpse. Bets on him being the one to find a bit that indicates its cult? The corpse is riddled with Blue Veins; Zolf orders Azu away from it immediately and sounds the kind of mad that means someone is terrified. He uses small words to spell out how badly he wants out of the room, good growth Zolf. Hamid prioritizes what they need to look into first. Cel asks Hamid to send lights down the chute under the table so they can investigate. Skraak doesn't like this plan and disappears under the table. Cel drops everything to check in with him. Skraak starts breaking things under the table. Hamid can see Cel & Azu are on it and focuses on persuading Zolf they need to work out the controls; since obviously he isn't going to get the promised time while they investigate the corpse. Cel investigates the mech dock. Bryn makes a formal case for being allowed to assist based on Hamid's time studying Mr Ceiling's controls. Alex concedes the point. We all love Cel. Cel could jury rig a connection to the speaker parts. Hamid works to persuade Cel not to hook their brain to anything. Azu looks for Skraak. Skraak is "happy as Larry" breaking the thing. They work out Skraak and Azu don't have any languages in common. When Azu knocks on the table to get his attention he knocks the rhythm back, they go repeat this a couple times building a little tune and I feel my lower lip going like when I'm watching puppy videos. Azu backs off since Skraak is okay. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Cel asks Skraak if he is available for a paid internship. Zolf wants to know what Skraak is doing. Hamid relays but its really not clear what Skraak means. Oh until he gets "an iris mechanism in the middle of the table" to open letting out a platform then the rest of the table sinks out of the way making stairs. Even Zolf compliments Skraak on that. Hamid makes a pitch to finish looting the place Kitchen was "prepper stocked" then left to rot. Zolf is a proper leader, has noted how long its been since they ate, and tosses anything still edible in his bag of holding. Azu finds the bed room gives few clues since the place is sealed off from dust etc. There is a Harrison Campbell novel with a bookmark 3/4s of the way through. Azu takes the book and shows Zolf who recognizes the cover even though it's in Japanese. In The Eye Of Your Love, its a rarer printing of an early work. Its an adventure rather than a romance. Hamid checks the study and finds: -Alex hyping them up -more paperwork on the "pipe organ" and complex -they are atop a geothermic vent, the complex extends significantly underground, and I don't like the sound of "live stock storage". -A natural tunnel system, maps show connections to the complex. -THE DIARY! I THOUGHT IF THEY GOT THE BRAIN WE WOULDN'T GET A DIARY! ALEX IS THE BEST! The brain could lie and is all weird now. A diary might not be trust worthy but can't pull the same nonsense as a living person. Hamid shows it to Cel since he can't read Japanese. "oh my gosh I always wondered if he was into me". Helen does not approve when Ben explains how Lay On Hands powers Positive Energy. "you are preaching to the choir Helen, you are preaching to choir".

[ghostmartyr]

Pokémon Black 2 Randomized Nuzlocke Run [Part 3]

With some interesting carnage leading us through it, the second badge has been earned. Better yet, we got a TM for a Special Poison move, so Caspet can now be a little more secure in her help.

Team as of the moment:

Stella (Poliwhirl)

Caspet (Gastly)

Okay then.

New routes please.

Hey me.

I have been invited to Pokestar Studios. It’s like Hollywood. Roxie’s dad ran off there to be a movie star. Roxie’s now running off there to talk him out of it. We’re going to run off there and have a terrible time with movies.

I don’t know why I remember the movie place. I think there was either some achievement or plot barrier there, and I hated the process but perfectionism insisted on trying again and... idk. Hopefully that distaste won’t be part of this run.

Can I please just be allowed to catch a third party member.

Is there any grass here. Please.

Stop dragging me to movies.

Stop dragging me to terrible movies.

Like there’s clearly some Emotions going on with Roxie’s father, but oh my gosh I do not play these games for becoming a movie star. ;-; Free me. ;-;

I have control of myself again, so I don’t know if I actually have to shoot a movie, but I feel like Roxie and her dad might require me to, and in any case, one won’t hurt too badly. I guess.

Wait, was it a medal thing? Is that why I made myself nuts over this?

Movie shot, script followed, yay, leaving.

Ahoy, plot!

Sequel Team Plasma is so very open about wanting to take over the world. How refreshing. They’ve gone from knights to pirates. Most excellent.

Pop Roxie is back to captaining, so it’s time to run off to Castelia and find another darn teammate.

And our first act of being in Castelia is a clown giving us a bicycle. Rocking.

A boat takes us to Liberty Garden. I think this is where Victini is if Victini is activated, but I’m not sure if that will be the case with this version. The important question is... does it also have other grass.

Fuckdamn it doesn’t.

Yay, entering random buildings in Castelia gave me an Exp. Share.

In keeping with me doing stupid things, I go to the Game Freak building and chat up some of the trainers who are not nearly as strong as they are post-game, thank goodness.

I really.

Really.

Would like.

More than two pokemon in my party.

I also finally gave in and talked to the medal guy in the Pokemon Center.

My achievement hunting tendencies are going to be the largest obstacle between me and any progress ever.

-whispers-

I want all of them.

Other conversations gave me an Eviolite, so that goes to Stella. ...Wait, no, Caspet. Uggggggh.

Burgh is missing from his Gym, which is fine, since I don’t think I’m ready for another round. I’m just walking around trying to check off whatever plot stuff I can that will let me catch something else.

Oh hey, I think talking to Iris opens up the sewers! I think that means I can catch something down there! !!!!

Pleeeeeease give me something.

Please, ominous guise of darkness.

Oh no.

Russell’s partnering with us, so. Uh. What’s the rule for this? I have to catch the first thing I see, but as long as I’m in a duo, I won’t be able to throw a ball very easily...

Fuuuuuuck.

Okay. We took out Panpour.

I have the ability to throw a ball, which means.

This is my catch option for the route.

Haaaa. And Russell’s Dewott is using Fury Cutter. Its damage will keep going up. I think I have two tries to catch it.

Yeehaw.

Try one is a bust.

Oh hey that’s neat! The Dewott used Razor Shell on Stella, because Stella has Water Absorb and had taken damage! That’s smarter than I expected from the partner AI.

And that means I can spare a turn or two trying to put Serperior to sleep. Since Stella still has Hypnosis.

Yo, it hit! And Dewott heals me again!

But. I need Serperior to be more damaged. I shouldn’t risk attacking. ...I’ll just keep throwing balls and wait for Dewott to hurt it a little more.

HECK YEAH WHO’S DA MAN.

Hot damn that was stressful.

Now I gotta give this girl a name.

Sylarana, wanna rock?

Also, now having Russell with me is a good thing, because this squad could use some levels.

What are you like, Syl?

She’s Careful and proud of her power.

Yeah, pride looks good on that sprite.

I don’t know what Serperior’s stats are with a neutral nature. That takes some stress off, since I’ll just go with the flow, but I prefer to know what I’m getting into, usually. Either way, Defense is stronger than Attack, and that’s just fine.

Female Nidoran are down here, too.

This is working out well enough. Yay for buddy healing. I almost don’t want it to ever end. It’s so convenient.

I shouldn’t do this forever, though. That would get boring fast.

My starter breathing. Also cool pirate outfits in Pokemon Go.

Mooks dispatched.

Gym Leader located!

Look at Burgh being all artsy with his tour of the sewers.

Huh, and Russell just hands us Strength. Because all our pals are true bros in this gen.

Then a dude with anime hair walks out of the hole in the wall.

YO NEW ROUTE.

‘ello there.

...I am possibly not going to be able to catch you due to lack of poke balls and you being remarkably stubborn.

Hey, there we go!

What to name you... what to name you... A magnificent sea serpent with a rainbow tail...

Nessy!

Without Russell healing us every fight, we can’t stick around. Back out of the sewers we go, to receive happy words from Iris. Well. Sort of happy words. She worries about Russell and tells us to challenge the Gym.

I, being a compliant sort, walk back into the sewers after healing.

Okay I guess it’s a cave. Sylarana out front, Nessy with Exp. Share while I contemplate what the heck this team does against a Bug Gym.

Ooooh, Forretress.

...

Is. is there anywhere I can go that can pave the way to me getting a Fire pokemon?

You know what, I don’t like things that blow themselves up at me. Guh, this is taking forever. I might need to buy a few Repels just so I can explore the cave properly... I believe there’s grass somewhere past the sewers, and if I could have a slightly more diverse team going into the next whatever, I’d like it.

Oh, and before I forget, Nessy!

She is Quirky and mischievous. She and Stella have half their personalities in common. Delightful. Marvel Scale is also a neat ability to have. Not one I can utilize properly because I’m a competitive failure, but still cool.

Neat, there’s Pidgeot down here.

Looks like there’s not much of the cave to explore at this point in the game. Ah well. Back to the sewers.

Hm. Would the desert north of Castelia be open to me yet? That could prove useful. Heck, is anywhere outside of this city open? I just need a little patch of grass somewhere new.

Bridge still being inspected.

A wild Bianca appears!

Dowsing Machine get!

Hello, this is new.

But there’s still spots of desert.

OH MY GOSH LOOK AT IT.

Oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh.

Caught!

Your new name is Itsy, and you are much beloved!

Itsy is Modest and somewhat vain, and ouch that is not a nature I think I like for this little one, but adorableness beats everything, so we’re good.

Butterfree is also in the desert. Oooo Pawniard. Back to the sewers, though. Easier training fodder.

Grass located!

...And if I were a better trainer, I would go back and buy poke balls before exploring, but I have the impulse control of a toddler. Oh, and it’s dark grass vs. light grass...

Decision will be made by rapidly running between the two and seeing what triggers an encounter first.

Dark grass it is!

Aaaaaaaa fuck off.

I love Lapras so much. So so so so so so so so much. But I have two Water pokemon already, as well as an Ice one. I. can’t focus on catching the Lapras. It would be a bad idea.

You have never seen anyone so sad to encounter a Dratini during a Nuzlocke.

The wild Lapras fainted.

Oh fucking hell the Dratini knows Dragon Rage and both my pokemon are under 40 HP. Caspet’s turn on healing Caspet, Sylarana’s turn on getting her out of there.

Okay. Confused and slept.

Now I just. catch it. With four poke balls and two great balls left.

...Three poke balls, and guess who woke up.

Great ball. C’mon great ball.

..One great ball left.

Also if Dratini hurts itself in confusion one more time it is dead.

FORTUNE SMILES ON THE CRIMINALLY STUPID.

Now let’s run everyone back through the sewers and--

Did. did I really hit the no nickname option.

Ffs.

Okay, run back through the sewers, hit the Pokemon Center, and then name the critter. The Name Rater’s somewhere in the city, I think.

Heh. The guy in the alleyway still gives us Flash.

Congratulations, Puff! You are now eligible for activity!

Puff is Quiet and alert to sounds. An adorable addition to our squad. He’s going to be temporarily up front thanks to Dragon Rage. The Game Freak fights are once a day, and it’s been a day, so!

I believe in you, Puff!

Dragon Rage is so op this early. Dreamor agrees. But Puff’s ours, so that makes it okay.

Hm. I have six now. They could keep each other out of trouble.

There are so many areas in these sewers I can’t get to. Or maybe I can, it just involves more maze work than I’m expecting. ...Yeah, it’s looking like that side. Hey, a nurse guy! Yay for less walking up to the Pokemon Center.

Oh, and Poison... might be super effective against Bug? I think the whatsit thing he has is Bug/Grass, so that isn’t actually much of a confirmation. Eh, I’ll find out soon enough.

I’ve found a room full of Zweilous. That’s a safe grinding area, right? Itsy’s got Ice and everything. Vullaby and Dwebble are also here.

Heeeeeey, Caspet’s evolving!

And wants to learn another physical Ghost move.

Bye Lick.

Okay, Gym it is.

...Wow Burgh. Really went full Art on the place, huh? Did trainers complain that you were forcing them to walk through honey before letting them fight you?

Puff’s up first. I don’t have much type advantage here, so it’s just going to be hitting things until they break.

Burgh.

Hey Burgh.

This Gym is creepy.

The cocoons just suck you in and zoom you up. Only think Willy Wonka style.

Mooks have level 20s, so this should be a little uncomfortable for a few of the younger members, but Caspet, Stella, and Sylarana should be fine. For now, Puff’s still in front and Dragon Raging all the things.

And we’re going to the Pokemon Center after every fight, but hey. Baby steps in all things. Puff is on one of the slower exp tracks, so every little bit helps.

...Burgh. Buddy.

You want to talk?

This Gym feels like a cry for help.

In true shounen protagonist style, I will settle your troubled emotions through battle! Even if none of the dialogue will admit to how concerning the aesthetics of your chosen arena are!

Everything is hitting critical hits.

...Oh wait, I’m supposed to narrate these fights, aren’t I?

Uh. Swadloon down, Dwebble down, Leavanny left, Leavanny’s level 24. Caspet’s out to deal with it after Puff handled Swadloon and Nessy handled Dwebble.

Caspet one-shots it like a champ, and on we go.

Burgh, this trinket in no way makes me less concerned for you.

Still, though! Everyone’s alive, and we have a team full of six! Nice work, ladies and Puff. Five more badges to go! Let’s hope they go well!

[lovexthexflash]

Five Years to Sin

Chapter 2 by me (lovexthexflash)

  It was after midnight when Barry vaulted down from his carriage in front of the impressive three-story, columned entrance to Gentlemen’s Club „S.T.A.R.“. He ascended the wide steps to the watered-glass double doors, which were held open by footmen liveried in black and silver. As he handed his hat and gloves to the waiting attendant, he noted the curricle-sized floral arrangement gracing a massive round table in the circular, domed foyer. Harrison Wells ad long been acknowledged as a man of impeccable taste, and his establishment remained the most exclusive in England in part due to his willingness to continuously update the décor. Wells did not follow prevailing inclinations in design; he set the standard for them.

  Directly ahead was the gaming area, which was the center of all business. From there, one could access the stairs to the fencing studio, as well as the many lovely courtesans and their private rooms. The lower floor accommodated boxing training and lessons. To the left was the bar and kitchen. To the right was Harrison Wells’s office.

  Barry crossed the black-and-white marble floor to the gaming area, then moved beyond that to the great room. The smell of leather and fragrant tobacco helped to settle nerves kept on edge since his visit with Iris the day before.

  At least that was true until the Earl of  Thawne caught his eye. Seated in one of a half dozen wingbacks surrounding a low table,  Thawne laughed at something said by Lord Hartley Rathaway. Also in his circle were Lord Cisco Ramon and Lord Wally West. Barry sat down on one of the free chairs.

  – “Good evening, Tarley.” – Cisco drawled while signaling for a footman. – “Seeking escape from all the debutantes eager for your new title?”

  – “I have an increased appreciation for the toll the Season can take on an unwed peer.” – Barry ordered cognac from the waiting server, as did Thawne. The rest of the men at the table had half-full libations.

  – “Here, here.” – Hartley concurred, lifting his glass in toast.

  – “Better you than me.” – Lord Cisco said. As a second son, he enjoyed a less hunted existence; the other men at the table had wives.

  Studying Thawne, Barry wondered why the man was out carousing with friends when he should be home making amends to Iris. It was difficult for him to restrain his tongue after witnessing her unhappiness. If she had been his, he would ensure nothing marred her existence.

  The footman returned with two glasses of cognac. Eddie took an immediate drink, which brought Barry’s attention to the hand the earl wrapped around the bulbous glass. The knuckles were swollen and bruised.

  –“Engaged in fisticuffs lately, Eddie?” – he asked, before taking a drink himself.

  To his knowledge, the earl was a genial fellow who was well liked by one and all. Lauded by women for his golden good looks, easy smile, and ready charm, Thawne made it very difficult for Barry  to like him. The man seemed too blithesome, to the point of lacking any real substance. But perhaps that was what made him suit Iris, who’d once been the merriest and most enchanting woman anywhere. She was still the latter and would always be to Barry ’s mind.

  – “Pugilism.” – Eddie replied. – “An excellent sport.”

  – “Agreed. I enjoy it myself. Do you practice here?”

  – “Often. If you’re ever of a mind to practice together–”

  – “Absolutely.”– Barry interjected, relishing the possibility of championing Iris, even if he was the only one who knew his motivation. From the sight of Thawne’s knuckles, the man preferred training sans mufflers, which suited Barry perfectly in this instance.

  – “Name the time and date, and I will be there.”

  – “I shall require the betting book.” – Lord Wally called out, deliberately drawing attention.

  Eddie grinned.

  – “Spoiling for a fight, are you, Tarley? I’ve had such days. I would be happy to oblige you now.”

  Barry sized the earl up. Eddie was shorter than he. Barry had the advantage in height and arm reach. Settling more comfortably into the butter-soft leather, he said:

  – “I would prefer an early-afternoon bout. We’ll enjoy ourselves more if we are both rested and free of drink.”

  The betting book was brought to the table, which lured an audience.

An unusual appearance of somberness possessed Eddie’s features.

  – “Excellent point. This day next week, then? Three o’clock?”

  – “Perfect.”

  An anticipatory smile curved Barry ’s lips. He reached for the betting book and placed a wager on Ronnie’s behalf with odds on himself.

  It was just the sort of bet his friend would appreciate.

* * *

  When Iris saw her husband at the dining table a few hours later, Eddie looked far from afflicted. Indeed, he looked extremely fit. His smile was bright and his spirits high. He kissed her cheek when she moved to pass him en route to her chair.

  – “Kippers and eggs?” – he queried before walking over to the row of covered platters on the buffet.

  Her stomach roiled.

  –“No, thank you.”

  – “You don’t eat enough, darling.”

  – “I took toast in my room.”

  – “But you join me for breakfast anyway.” – His smile was glorious. – “You are too wonderful. How was your evening?”

  – “Unexceptional, but enjoyable all the same.”

  Iris almost dreaded these moments of normalcy. The pretense that all was right in their world, that no malevolence lurked in the darkness, that he was a wonderful husband and she a contented wife. It was like staring at a box one knew would burst open at some point and not knowing if the surprise would be terrifying or not. There was agony in the waiting.

  Her gaze strayed and moved around the room. Their home was lauded by friends for its bright cheery colors, such as the soft cream and bright blue vertical stripes she’d used on the walls of the dining room. They’d purchased the town house just before their wedding; it was to have been a fresh beginning for both of them. But now she knew how futile that hope had been. The taint was on him … in him, and he carried it with him wherever they went.

  – “I shared a drink with Tarley last night.”– Thawne said between bites. – “He was seeking refuge from the debutantes. The strain of being hunted is beginning to take its toll, I suspect.”

  Iris looked at him. The tempo of her heartbeat changed, increasing inexplicably.

  – “Oh?”

  – “I remember those days well. You saved me in more ways than you know, my love. I’m providing assistance to Tarley via a release of tension. He learned of my interest in pugilism, and we’ve agreed to a match.”

  Dear God! She knew well how swiftly Eddie could move and how relentless he could become. He couldn’t tolerate losing; it exacerbated his already overwhelming feelings of insecurity. Her stomach knotted further.

  – “A match? Between the two of you?”

  – “Would you happen to know how skilled he is in the sport?”

  Iris shook her head:

  – “He sparred with Ronnie Raymond in our youth. That’s all I know of his interest. He and I were close once, but I’ve seen little of him since you and I wed.”

  – “A wager easily won, then.”

  – “Perhaps you might suggest he consider a less learned opponent?”

  – “You fear for him, do you?” – he grinned.

  – “Caitlin thinks very highly of him.”– Iris prevaricated.

  – “Everyone does, so I gather. No need for concern, love. It’s all in good fun, I assure you.” – Glancing at one of the two footmen standing at the ready, he said. – “Lady Thawne will take buttered toast and jam.”

  Iris sighed, resigning herself to eating whether she wanted to or not.

  She was thrown unaccountably out of sorts by the thought of Barry fighting Eddie, especially when his motivation might be aggravation over choosing a proper wife. In that respect, she could be of more assistance than her husband. There was very little she didn’t know about the women of the ton, from the most established matrons to the newest debutantes. Perhaps he would accept her help. It would do her heart much good to see him content with his lot. He certainly deserved happiness.

  Eddie set his silverware atop his empty plate.

  – “I should very much enjoy squiring you about the Park this afternoon. Tell me you don’t have other plans.”

  If she had, she knew to cancel them. When Eddie wanted her time, he expected to have it. She was his wife, after all. His. Irrevocably owned until death parted them.

  Looking up from her paper, she managed a smile:

  – “A lovely thought, my lord. Thank you.”

* * *

  – “There is a bonnet in the window.” – Iris offered. – “I think it would be exquisite on you, Patty.”

  Moving toward the front of the shop, Iris reached for the aforementioned hat perched so prettily on a stand, but paused when her gaze was caught by a figure outside. Bond Street was congested with pedestrians, as usual, and yet one form caught her attention and held it.

  The man was tall and fit, elegant, with a horseman’s thighs and shoulders requiring no padding. His dark green coat and doeskin breeches were modestly adorned but clearly expensive. He had such a confident way of moving that others instinctively made way for him. The women watched him with feminine awareness; the men moved out of his path.

  As if he felt the intensity of her regard, the man turned his head toward her. Beneath the brim of his hat, Iris saw a square jaw she would know anywhere.

  Barry. Warmth spread through her veins, a feeling she hadn’t experienced since the first time Eddie had struck her. Something inside her had numbed that day, but it stirred now, awakening.

  Dear God! When had he become such a fine specimen of a man? When had her childhood companion left boyhood behind? When he became Lord Tarley? Or prior to that? She so rarely saw him anymore that she couldn’t pinpoint when he might have become so formidable.

  He paused as she did, a lone stationary figure in the midst of a flurry of activity. He carried himself so beautifully, so easily. Comfortable with his height in a way her husband, who was a few inches shorter, had never been.

  Iris’s hand fell to her side. Before she quite knew what she was about, she found herself outside, waiting for Barry, who weaved through traffic en route to her with graceful impatience.

  – “Good afternoon, Lord Tarley.” – she said when he reached her. She was surprised her voice was so clear and steady, when she felt fuzzy headed and shaky.

  He removed his hat, revealing rich chocolate-brown hair. With a bow, he greeted her.

  – “Lady Thawne. I am feeling most fortunate to have crossed paths with you this morning.”

  She was ridiculously pleased by the smoothly voiced platitude.

  – “The feeling is mutual.”

  Barry looked over her shoulder into the milliner’s shop.

  – “An afternoon with friends?”

  – “Yes.”

  Which meant she couldn’t speak to him about the matter weighing heavily on her mind.

  – “I must see you as soon as you can possibly spare the time. I have something I wish to discuss with you.”

  – “What is it?” – He tensed. – “Is something amiss?”

  – “I’ve heard about your wager with Eddie.”

  With brows raised, he said:

  – “I won’t hurt him. Too much.”

  – “It isn’t Thawne I worry about.” – Barry had no notion of what sleeping beast he might awaken.

  – “I cannot decide whether to be flattered by your concern or insulted by your lack of faith in my pugilistic abilities.”

  – “I cannot bear to think of you injured.”

  – “I will endeavor to protect my person on your behalf. In all fairness, however, you should know that my doing so could result in injury to your husband.”

  Had he always looked at her with such warmth in his green eyes?

  – “Eddie is physically capable of defending himself.”

  When Barry frowned at her tone, she realized she might have revealed more than she should. She deflected his concern with distraction.

  – “I very much enjoyed your visit the other day. I do wish you would call on me more often.”

  – “I wish I could, Iris.” – His voice was low and intimate, his gaze shadowed. – “I will try.”

  They parted ways. It was with great force of will that Iris refrained from looking back over her shoulder when she returned to the shop. It was one thing to take a moment to speak to her best friend’s brother-in-law. It would be quite another to be seen ogling after him.

  When Iris returned to her companions, her sister-in-law, Lady Linda Park said:

  – “The title suits Tarley.”

  Iris nodded, knowing the grief and other burdens that came with his new station.

  – “With any luck, Patty,” – Lady Park went on. – “a new bonnet will catch his attention and secure you a fine match.”

  – “Would that I should be so fortunate.” – Patty removed yet another unflattering hat from atop her lovely blond curls. – “I have admired him for some time.”

  Iris felt a sharp pang in her chest at her friend’s dreamy tone. She told herself it was a symptom of increasing, not something far more complicated and impossible … like jealousy.

* * *

  – “You wished to see me?” – Nora Allen asked her son.

  – “Yes.” – set his quill aside and stood. – “I have a favor to ask of you. I should like you to deepen your association with Lady Thawne. Draw her into your social circle. Spend more time with her, if you would.”

  – “She is charming, of course, but there are a notable number of years between us. I am not certain our interests are aligned.”

  – “Try.”

  – “Why?”

  Leaning forward, he set his forearms on his knees.

  – “I fear something is not right with her. I need your opinion. If I am correct, you would note it straightaway.”

  – “I meant, why the interest in Lady Regmont in particular? If there is anything requiring attention, Lord Thawne will see to it. You, on the other hand, need a spouse of your own to occupy you.”

  Groaning, Barry’s head fell back and his eyes closed.

  – “Is marrying me off all anyone can think about these days? The gossip rags are rife with speculation over my intentions, and now I cannot even enjoy a respite in my own home!”

  – “Isn’t there any woman who appeals to you?”

  Absolutely. – he thought to himself. – As you’ve so astutely surmised, I am crazy for another man’s wife.

  Barry straightened.

  – “Enough of this. I am well. Our affairs are well. There is no need for concern in any respect. I am tired and feeling ill equipped, but I’m learning quickly, and soon all will be as second nature to me. Settle your mind, if you would, please.”

  – “So.” – Nora’s tone was resigned. – “Tell me what rouses your concern over Lady Regmont.”

  – “She is gaunt and far too pale. She seems overly delicate, both physically and otherwise. It isn’t like her. She was always vivacious … full of energy and life.”

  – “Men rarely take note of such things about their own wives, let alone another man’s.”

  Holding up his hand, he warded off further speculative admonishments.

  – “I know my place and hers. Note that I am placing this matter in your hands. My mind will be eased by your assistance, allowing me to return my focus to affairs falling within my purview.”

  And then they were silent. The silence was disturbed by his mother:

  – “Lady Thawne has a profound effect on you since you care so much for her.”

  Barry scrubbed a hand over his face.

  – “Why do women insist on ascribing deep meaning to random events?”

  – “Because we take note of life’s details, which men fail to do. That is why women are cleverer than men.” – She bared her pristinely white teeth in an overly sweet smile.

  Barry grew wary due to familiarity with that particular smile and the mischief it portended.

  – “I will see to Iris for you.” – she said in a honeyed tone. – “For a price.”

  Right. He knew it.

  – “What will it cost me?”

  – “You must allow me to introduce you to some suitable young ladies.”

  – “Bloody hell.” – Barry snapped. – “Can you not simply act out of the kindness of your heart?”

  – “Kindness for you. You are overworked, overtired, and underappreciated. Not surprisingly, you find yourself drawn to someone who is familiar and comfortable.”

   Realizing that arguing against her points would only work against him, Michael kept his mouth shut and pushed to his feet. Tea was most definitely not going to be sufficient for him. Benedict’s cognac in the bookcase behind the desk was far more appealing. He approached the wall of books and bent to open one of the carved wooden cabinet doors lining the bottom row.

  – “Good that you aren’t speaking,” – she went on. – “because you should be listening. I married a Allen male and raised two more; I know precisely how you are built.”

  He’d stopped pouring at the halfway point, but decided to continue to the rim.

  – “We are built differently from other men?”

  – “Some men choose their mates with their reason, weighing the benefits and detriments in a purely analytical manner. Others – like your friend Raymond – respond to physical attractions. But Allen men choose from here” – she tapped her chest above her heart – “and once the choice is made, they are hard to dissuade.”

  – “See to Lady Thawne.”– he said grimly. – “Give her whatever counsel or sympathetic ear she may need, for as long as she may need it. In return, I will make myself available to your matchmaking.”

  Nora’s mouth curved.

  – “Done.”

* * *

  In the last few days, Mrs. Allen had been going to Thawne's house and talking to Iris. Iris was worried and shared:

  – “I feel so wretched most of the day. And I confess, I worry about the match between Eddie and Barry tomorrow. I wish there was some way to dissuade them. Eddie takes such things so seriously.”

  – “You care about Barry.”

  Iris felt a blush sweep over her cheeks. Over the past week, she’d found herself paying undue attention to Barry. She’d looked for him at events and around the city, hoping for a mere glimpse. The sharp prick of excitement she felt when she found him both exhilarated and saddened her. It was undeniable proof that her love for her husband had lost its ability to consume her.

  – “He’s a good man.”

  – “Yes, he is.” – Nora set her cup down with a sigh. – “I must be honest with you. I have more than one reason for cultivating our friendship. Though I’m deeply grateful for assistance with my attire, I have a need for another of your skills more.”

  – “If I can help in any way, I would be honored to.”

  – “I should like your expert opinion on the debutantes who might best suit Barry Allen. Since you care for him as I do, I know you want to see him content in his marriage.”

  – “Of course.”

  Iris met the countess’s examining gaze directly, drawing upon years of Caitlin’s coaching to hide her dismay. It was unreasonable for her to wish for him to remain as he’d always been.

  – “Thank you. I hope to see him settled before the year is out.” – said Nora.

  – “That would be wonderful.” – Iris agreed softly. – “If we cannot manage sooner.”

  Iris felt terrible. Will he marry a friend of hers? Lady Spivot seemed to be interested in becoming Lord Tarley's future wife. She tried to push those feelings back.

[bffhreprise]

Entry 341

 My eyes widened as a silver car pulled in front of me, into my family’s driveway.  I knew that car.  I jogged a little to hurry after, only to see James and Mila step out of his car.  “James!  Mila!?  Is something wrong?” I asked, feeling anxious.  I hadn’t even figured out how to explain to my parents that I’d like to go to France with the company I had barely worked at for six weeks.  Now there was my boss, the literal wizard, standing in my driveway and looking like a model.  When he shook his head, I asked “then why are you…”

 He quickly interrupted me, saying, “I was going to wait for you to arrive at my home, but I was informed that you wouldn't have time to stop by today.  Sorry for the intrusion, but I thought this was a good opportunity to meet your parents, if you don't mind.”  As I stood there attempting to process what he had said, he told me “First off, I have something to give you.”  He handed over what looked to be one of the company’s enhancement suits, much to my surprise.  “You're only allowed to wear this while working for me, at my home, or in route to or from a job.  You'll also be expected to wear this during our trip to France, since you don't seem prepared to taze someone with your magic.”

 “Taze someone?  Are you expecting trouble?” I asked, alarmed by the idea.

 His amused smile answered my question even before he said, “No, but I would like to be prepared just in case.”  His face became more serious as he continued, saying, “I don't imagine everyone will be with me at all times.  My wife might well want to get me alone at some point, and by now I'm sure you're well aware that some of our friends can be a bit flirtatious.”

 I nodded my agreement, knowing that easily could easily give guys the wrong impression, and not all guys took that well.  “That's for sure.”

 Smiling once more, he explained “Groups may well be split up at times.  If you ever find yourself alone, I would like you to feel safe still.  You will, of course, be able to contact me if needed at any time.  Next time you visit the mansion, be sure to stop by Jarod’s lab for a phone upgrade.”

 “Phone upgrade?” I questioned, not really feeling there was anything wrong with my phone.  Of course, my standards weren’t up to the company’s yet.

 “Yes.  As I'm sure you've noticed, we have certain technologies available to us that aren't mass-produced for the world yet.” he stated as he motioned to the suit in my arms.  “Though altering the hardware will void any warranty you have, I promise that your phone will have increased performance.  Furthermore, your phone will be able to connect with my network if ever you decide to switch plans, which I highly recommend.”

 “Umm… Okay.  I'll have to talk with my dad about it.” I assured him, not even doubting a word of it at this point.

 Hearing the front door open, I looked over to see Mick watching us.

 “Iris, you okay?” he questioned, looking more interested than concerned.  His eyes darted between the car and James.

 I nodded as I told him, “Mick, this is my boss, James, and Mila, his umm...”

 “Maid.” she answered for me.

 Mick glanced over his shoulder to make sure the rest of our family didn’t see him before he quietly closed it and approached us.  “You're the one who told my sister to warn me not to play our games as much?” he questioned in a whisper, remembering the warning I gave him about James’ confidentiality agreements.  He did not want to see that thing.

 “Yes.  She did explain why, didn't she?” questioned James with a polite smile.

 Mick nodded and then asked “Is it true that you can… You know…”  He was definitely alluding to what I mentioned of James being a wizard.

 “I'm certain you would be amazed, but this is neither the time nor the place.  Why don't you stop by the mansion with your sister when you have time?” suggested James.

 Mick looked at me as if to question whether that was really a good idea.  I shrugged, knowing he probably couldn’t handle that place any better than I could, though I was gradually feeling more comfortable with the craziness.  Part of me wondered if that was really a good thing.

 “Today I'm here to discuss the company trip with your parents, assuming they happened to be home.” announced James after giving us a brief moment to our thoughts.

 “Company trip?  Where are you going?” asked Mick in surprise.

 I hadn’t gotten around to even seeking help from my brothers yet.

 “France.  We'll be attending a concert as well as general tourist sites throughout the country.” explained James, as if a trip out of the country was as normal as crossing a street.

 “Wow.  Iris, have you told dad that you'll need a passport?” questioned Mick in surprise.  He seemed to think Dad would be fine with the trip.

 “I have already taken the liberty to acquire passports for everyone needing them.” asserted Mila with a small smile.

 My poor brother’s eyes barely touched her before averting again.  Mila was way too pretty.  “Whoa.” he whispered.  “Sorry.  Maids don't just clean things?”

 “Mila's a special case and a good friend.  I don't know what I would do without her.” insisted James with a loving glance at his AI companion.  “Are your parents home?”

 “Oh.  Yeah.  Sorry.  This way.” replied Mick as he turned to head to the door.  Once inside, he called out, saying, “Hey, Mom, we have a guest.”

 “Coming!” she called.

 “Would you like a drink?” questioned Mick, actually remembering his manners.

 “Sure.  Orange juice.” I told him with a grin.  Who could resist picking on their siblings?

 “I'll take some as well.” stated James as Mick eyed me like he wanted to throw down.

 “Mila, right?” asked Mick as he did his best to keep his eyes on her.  When she nodded, he inquired “Want anything?”

 “No, thank you.” she replied with a smile that made him blush slightly.

 “Who's here?” called Mike as Mick left the room.

 “Iris’ boss.  Go find dad.” replied Mick.

 I could picture Mike socking Mick on the shoulder for ordering him around, so I said, “Sorry if my brothers get rowdy while you’re here.”

 James laughed as he followed me to the living room.  “If they can be more rowdy than our mutual friends, I will be quite impressed.”

 “Yeah… You have a point.” I acknowledged, having seen the superhuman feats of my coworkers.  “Am I allowed to tell them about Mila, or would you prefer that I didn't?”

 “I don't mind either way.” replied Mila, watching me as if to see my decision.

 “They probably wouldn't believe me, so I guess it's not a big deal.” I admitted, knowing good and well that I wouldn’t have believed them either if one of them came back with such a crazy story.

 James, Mila, and I took a seat.  When I was young, my house had always seemed like a pretty normal home, though I eventually was warned that others couldn’t do the things we could.  As I grew older, I realized that our house was actually large and generally nicer than most.  After meeting James, I actually was noticing the crumbs near the cup holders of our couch.  One of my brothers had left his socks in the room.  There was a bit of wear on Dad’s spot.  If James noticed, he didn’t say a thing.  More than likely, he noticed...

 When Mom entered the room, James stood to greet her.   “Mrs. Storm, please pardon my intrusion, but there is business which I would like to discuss with you and your husband.  I am James Michael Somerset III, Iris’ boss.”

 “Welcome to our home, Mr. Somerset.” she replied, shaking his hand and staring up at him.

 “James, please.” he insisted.

 Mom smiled and told him, “Call me Mirabella.  Pleasure to meet you, James.  Iris has been strangely tight-lipped about you, but my husband is excited to have new blood joining his baseball league.”

 “We at Best Friend For Hire appreciate the opportunity.” he told her, seeming perfectly sincere.  He knew his company couldn’t lose.  There was no way.  Compared to my coworkers, my family were very, very average people.

 “Have you started practicing yet?” questioned Mom with interest.  She usually attended the games.

 Before James could answer, Matt came running into the room, saying, “Mom, you're not going to believe this, but there's a talking car out front.”

 “Sorry if I startled you, Matt, but I prefer that the master’s personal transportation goes untouched without his permission.” replied Mila, bowing her head slightly in apology.

 Matt outright pointed at her as he exclaimed “You sound just like the car!”

 She smiled and nodded, not at all disturbed by my brother’s behavior.

 Suddenly confused, he said, “Wait.  How did you know that…”

 “Matt, behave!” snapped Mom.  “This is James, Iris’ boss.”

 He clearly wanted to argue that what he was saying was more important, but he knew Mom’s tone.  “Sorry.” he apologized after a deep, slow breath to calm down.

 “No need to apologize.” insisted James.  “My DB5 has had some considerable upgrades, and few wouldn't be surprised by her.” he acknowledged before turning to look at Mila.  “Mila would you mind showing Matt the car?  Mike would probably be interested as well if you catch him in the hall.”  How he knew which of my brothers was in the hall had to be a wizard thing.

 “As you wish, Master.” she replied, standing and approaching my brother.

 “Can I?” Matt asked Mom with obvious excitement.  No, there weren’t many secrets kept in this household.

 “Just be careful.” she told him, obviously not wanting my brothers to damage anything.  By now, she had probably noticed the quality of James’ clothes, his perfect nails, and maybe even that his shoes looked perfectly new.

 “Sorry about my brothers.” I told him once Matt was out of the room.

 “She says that even though Kayla nearly ran into her when she came for an interview.” teased James, speaking to Mom.

 “Kayla's ten.  My brothers are older than me!” I argued, feeling a little embarrassed.  His version of the story left out how Kayla ran like an Olympic sprinter, appearing almost out of nowhere after rounding the corner.

 James just shrugged and said, “Still, things happen.”

 “Who is Kayla?” questioned Mom.

 “She's the sister of an employee who lives at my company headquarters.” he explained.  “Many of my employees live there, since we have exceptional accommodations.”

 “He's understating them dramatically.  I really can't explain.” I insisted, not even knowing where to begin with the outlandish luxury of Somerset Estate.

 Dad stepped into the room before we could argue more, asking “Explain what?”

 “How incredible Best Friend For Hire's headquarters is.” stated Mom with a meaningful look to Dad.  “This is Iris’ boss, James.  James, this is my husband, Grayson.”

 James shook Dad’s hand and said, “Meeting you is a pleasure, sir.  Thank you for inviting my company to join your baseball league.  I do feel obligated to warn you that most of my company is young and highly athletic.”

 “Iris has mentioned that you do martial arts training each morning.  What's the reason for it?” questioned Dad, possibly out of curiosity.  He was probably in his “assessment phase” of meeting someone.  He often spoke about how important that was.

 “In addition to being a good general fitness program, I like the idea that all of my employees will be able to protect themselves in case a client becomes less than pleasant.” replied James.  “We do, of course, screen our clients before pairing them with any given best friend, so there has yet to be a serious incident.”

 “I'm glad to hear you're cautious, given your unusual line of work.  The company doing okay?” questioned Dad, making me roll my eyes

 James merely nodded and said, “We're still expanding, and our profits are quite substantial.  Just this past winter, I added a hotel chain to the company's assets.  We also have close ties with Global Princess Entertainment and the Intergalactic House of Awesome Sauce, given that I'm a primary shareholder in each.”

 Dad’s surprise was obvious.  He probably hadn’t gotten around to looking into my new job, thinking of it as another startup doomed to fail.  He said, “Wow.  Impressive.  That restaurant chain is something else.  We've eaten there a couple times.”

 If I had known James was involved in the Intergalactic House of Awesome Sauce when I met him, I wouldn’t have been at all surprised about the wealth.  That restaurant was incredibly expensive, and hosted the best food I had ever eaten, possibly excluding Marco’s.

 “You should see James’ chef in action.” I asserted.  “That guy's amazing too.”

 James smiled at me before looking to Dad and saying, “My wife assures me that Marco is one of the best chefs in the world.  As head of the Pendreigh Group, she's done enough traveling for me to take her word.”

 “The Pendreigh Group!?” asked Dad in surprise.  Had he mentioned them before?

 “Yes.  Heard of them?” questioned James, though he didn’t really sound surprised.

 Nodding, Dad said, “They've been buying up companies all over the city, so I did a bit of research a while back.  You say your wife runs it!?”

 “Yes.  She also manages her father's estates.  He's the Duke of Caerllion in Wales.” explained James, letting the bomb of a name drop out with his typical easy manner.

 Dad nodded and took a seat, looking at James with much more interest than he had shown when I mentioned where I had been hired.  No, he hadn’t looked into my job yet, but I was certain he would now.

 James eventually got around to bringing up our trip to France, assuring my parents that every detail was being planned for the general safety of all participants.  Surprisingly, neither of my parents had many questions about it, just listening to the general itinerary with interest before moving back to the topic of James’ company.

 As I listened, I couldn’t help admiring how easily James had won my parents over.  He was just one of those people that you met and instantly liked.  My brothers barged in, gushing about James’ car after a while, and James obligingly walked my parents out to show them as well, though I doubted he showed them everything.  Unlike my home, James’ home was full of secrets, enough for an unintelligible confidentiality contract and probably more security than I could imagine.

 When he left, Dad turned to me and said, “You could’ve given me a little more warning, Iris.”

 “I didn’t know he was coming!” I assured him.

 “Not that, but… Did you know how wealthy he is?” he questioned.

 “Well, I told you his place is crazy fancy and that his wedding had all sorts of celebrities and such.” I replied, feeling somewhat evasive.  There was so much I hadn’t mentioned yet.

 “Iris, the Pendreigh Group controls hundreds of billions of dollars at least.  If the leader of that group decided to marry James, he’s certainly not poor.” insisted Dad, looking like he wanted to do some digging.

 “Well, he did decide on taking us all to France on a whim.” I agreed with a shrug.

 Dad laughed and said, “By private jet.  I don’t know how he got you a passport already, but he must be connected with some very important people besides the British heiress.  They really haven’t asked you to do anything questionable, right?”

 I shook my head.  “Not unless you consider playing games and getting paid questionable.” I assured him.

 “In that case, stick with them.  As long as you don’t have to do anything illegal, or something that makes you feel uncomfortable, you should stick with that man.  I have a good feeling that you’ll be thankful you did.” insisted Dad, wrapping his arm around me.

 Mom closed in on the other side and said, “I agree with your dad.  James is charming, but he seems genuinely nice as well.  He’ll look out for you.”

 I nodded again, hugging them back.  There were so many shocks ahead for them if I figured out how to explain a fraction of what James’ company was like, without breaking any confidentiality agreements, that I had no clue where I would even start.  As Dejon had told me, James’ company was like being part of a different reality.