Page 19 of Starfall

“I keep forgetting that we live in a small town.”

He chuckled. “Better here than the city. Too many weirdos.”

She laughed and unbuckled after he parked.

Emery waited until he opened the door for her before she slid out of her seat. He smiled brightly, like she had learned a trick. “Thank you, Emery.”

“What?”

“Letting me open your door. My mom always said the mark of a true gentleman was that he could attract a true lady.”

“Right. I can be had for a bucket of hot wings.”

“Oh. I will keep that in mind.” He grinned and put his hand on her back, guiding her to the front of the old home that had been upgraded entries, which were accessible to anyone.

Emery kept her expression pleasant as they walked in, and Merwin hung up the phone with a smile. “Rowen. I hear you need a dress for your girlfriend.”

Emery opened her mouth but felt his fingers flexing against her back.

“Yes, Merwin. This is Emery.”

Emery looked at Merwin. “You are taller than when I saw you last.”

Merwin looked at her and blushed. “You were Gabi’s friend?”

“Yes. How is she?”

There was a soft thump as another woman came out of a back room. “I am taller as well, Emery. May I have a hug?”

“Of course, my queen.” Emery bowed low and then walked to Gabi, hugging the smaller woman carefully. “You are looking well, Gabi.”

“I know. Your fashion sense remains the same.”

Emery chuckled. “Hey, it’s easy to find clothes.”

“Yeah, well, beating up hobos for their wardrobe is a hobby for you, I guess.”

“I love it when you are vicious.”

Gabi laughed and hugged her again. When they parted, she said, “What are we dressing you for?”

“You aren’t dressing me. I just need a single dress. For the Yule party at Winter’s.”

“So, you know Winter, and you are hanging around with Rowen. Wow. Are you collecting an entire calendar?”

“A calendar of warlocks posing around the year? It might sell.”

Gabi giggled and straightened, looking Emery up and down. “Well, we can discuss you and my cousin while I find something suitable for you. Follow me.”

There was nothing else to do. Emery followed.

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