Page 24 of Starfall

“Winter called him. I was walking home after doing... something... and was covered in something, so I turned down his offer to drive me home. We walked and talked.”

“Why were you hanging with Winter?”

“I am a friend of his new girlfriend, Orla.”

Gabi grinned. “Really?”

“Really. She’s doing well.”

“What’s she doing?”

“Oh, she’s working at a custom furniture company as a saleswoman, but I think she is about to get a bump to management.”

Gabi looked cheerful. “She is going to be at the party?”

“Yes. She and Hunter are a thing now, and they have a puppy, so I think it is a settled thing.”

Gabi grinned. “Good. She was always so friendly.”

Emery nodded. “She still is.”

Emery had to remain quiet as the lip stain was applied, and the gloss went on a few minutes later.

Levelle smiled. “Lovely. The hair will be simple as you are not trying to show anything off.”

“No. That isn’t really my wheelhouse. I am usually fairly direct no matter which form.”

Levelle moved behind her and started brushing her hair. The twists and weaving were quick with a minimum of pins, and a curling iron kept everything else moving together.

Gabi smiled. “You look lovely. I will see you later tonight.”

“You aren’t coming now?”

“No. We need to get dressed and ready, and only the seasons need to be there by sunset. That means you as Rowen’s date.”

“Right.” She stood up and glanced toward the door. “Will he come here?”

“Yes, and I have to stay with you until he shows up.” Gabi chuckled.

“Why?”

“I believe he thinks you will run.”

“Well, he is perceptive.” She settled in her cloak and fidgeted.

Gabi sighed. “He’s a really good guy, Emery.”

Emery looked at her in surprise. “I know that. I just think that we aren’t a particularly good match.”

Gabi paused and said, “Oh. Our family will greet you with open arms, and we are a huge family, so that is a lot of arms.”

Emery nodded. “Okay.”

“Emmy, Rowen attracts women easily, but he has been looking for someone like you.”

Levelle was tidying her station and sanitizing makeup. “He has been looking for her specifically. She’s his sketch model.”

Gabi blinked. “I thought you hadn’t met him before.”

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