Something flickered across his expression. Disappointment, maybe? But he nodded. "Understood. I'll be... elsewhere."
Twenty minutes later, I had my laptop connected to what Malrik assured me was a reinforced internet connection, my phone positioned for optimal reception, and a cup of coffee that had remained at the perfect temperature despite sitting untouched for twenty minutes.
The otherworldly perks were admittedly nice.
Sinnamon had claimed a spot near the fireplace, looking remarkably content.
My first call was with the botanical society about their upcoming luncheon.
"Charlie, dear, I've been thinking about the centerpieces," came the voice through the speaker. "Do you think the daffodils might be too cheerful for a scientific presentation?"
"I think daffodils are perfect for a celebration of botanical research," I replied, making notes on my legal pad. "They're seasonal, locally sourced, and?—"
The study door opened, and Malrik appeared with what looked suspiciously like a sandwich and more coffee.
"I thought you might need sustenance," he said quietly, setting the tray on a side table.
I covered the phone's microphone. "I said no hovering."
"I'm not hovering. I'm providing refreshments. There's a difference."
"Charlie?" The voice came through the speaker. "Did you say something about locally sourced?"
"Yes, sorry," I said, shooting Malrik a warning look. "The daffodils will be sourced from Mystic Ridge farms, which aligns perfectly with your sustainability goals."
Malrik retreated, but I noticed he didn't actually leave the room. Instead, he positioned himself at the far end, ostensibly reading something but clearly listening to my conversation.
"Now, about the dietary restrictions," she continued. "We have two vegans, one person with severe nut allergies, and Professor Williams specifically requested that nothing on the menu be 'too exotic.' What does that mean, exactly?"
I glanced at my notes. "Professor Williams considers anything more adventurous than iceberg lettuce to be suspicious. I've arranged for a simple grilled chicken option and a basic salad."
"Excellent. And the seating arrangements?"
"Round tables for eight, with place cards arranged to encourage interdisciplinary conversation while avoiding the people who had that argument about invasive species at last year's conference."
Malrik looked up from his book, and I caught what might have been admiration in his expression.
My laptop screen flickered briefly, a line of static cutting across the spreadsheet before clearing. I ignored it, focusing on the call.
"Charlie, you're a miracle worker," came the voice through the phone. "I don't know how you keep track of all these details."
"Thank you, I do my best," I replied with a smile. "I'll email you the final timeline this afternoon."
After I hung up, Malrik set down his book. "Invasive species argument?"
"Dr. Peterson blamed Professor Martinez for introducing non-native orchids to the greenhouse. Professor Martinez blamed Dr. Peterson's research methods for killing them. It got... heated."
"And you remember this why?"
"Because it's my job to remember these things. Event planning isn't just about flowers and food. It's about people. Their quirks, their feuds, their allergies, their ex-wives they don't want to sit near." I picked up the sandwich he'd brought, realizing I actually was hungry. "Speaking of which, we need to discuss the logistics for your guest list."
"What about it?"
"Well, I'll need to arrange the usual discrete feeding stations for the vampire guests, and I'll make sure the fae menu is completely iron-free. The shapeshifters will need the high-protein options, and I assume the elementals won't require any food service?"
Malrik's expression shifted to what looked like impressed appreciation. "Exactly as I would have specified. I knew there was a reason you're the only coordinator in Mystic Ridge capable of handling an event of this magnitude."
"I've also been thinking about seating arrangements," I continued, making notes. "The werewolf pack will need to be positioned away from the vampire coven. They're still feuding over that territory dispute from last year. And I'll schedule the fae court's arrival for after full sunset, since they refuse to make any appearance before their 'dramatic entrance time.'"
