Alastair had promised to study the numbers as thoroughly as possible, although promised no immediate answers to the knotty problem they now knew they had.
Lucas and Verity had emerged into the sunshine together.
“Well,” she sighed. “I don’t know what to say or how to collect my thoughts at this point.”
“I can well understand,” replied Lucas. “I’m close to feeling that way myself.”
He extended his arm absently, and she linked hers through it, neither seeming aware of how naturally they’d begun walking together.
“I am at a loss to even think of who might have the knowhow to put together such a convoluted plan. And using your PBIC system, Lucas. It’s just appalling.”
“You don’t need to tell me that, Verity. I can assure you I’m well aware now of the issues we’re facing.” He remained silent for a few minutes as they strolled the streets of Arcvale. “I should say that I am facing, since this revelation is going to require a reworking of the system. I need to put more safeguards in place...perhaps I should...”
His voice tapered off, and Verity glanced at him, knowing that anything she said in reply would be wasted. His mind was off in another plane of numbers and mathematics; one where even someone with as much knowledge as she had, would be completely out of place.
Worried as she was and nursing a growing anger against whoever had dared to play fast and loose with one of Arcvale’s most valuable assets, she still found a measure of delight in walking with this man, arm in arm, sharing their troubles. She knew his mind now, just as he would know hers.
For Verity, it was most unusual, since she’d never met a man who shared her interests and intellect. Alastair, bless him, had seen that in her, but he was more like a long-lost uncle. This was...definitely not that.
Lucas slowed his steps. “Where are we going?”
She couldn’t help a laugh. “Thank God I was here. You might have walked straight off the Bearing Bridge.”
He gave her a rueful smile. “Indeed, that’s true. Of course, it’s all your fault.”
“How so?” She shot him an indignant look. “I didn’t create this mess.”
“In all fairness, Verity, neither did I.”
“No, I didn’t mean that...” She sighed. “Look, it’s nearly noon, and we’re two streets from Turningstone House. Come to lunch. I’m sure you’re as hungry as I am, and perhaps we’ll think more clearly after a meal.”
Lucas, whose breakfast had yet to include an omelette, wasn’t about to object. “All right. Thank you, I accept your invitation.”
“I don’t have a mirror-engine, I’m afraid.”
“Not many do. And when you consider the matter, not many would need one, let alone know what to do with it if they acquired one.”
“Hmph.” She thought about that. “You’re right, of course, but for those of us whodoknow what do with it? Ahhh. What a delight.” Turning her head, she shot him an amused smile. “If you are ever wondering about an appropriate gift for me, I’m not impressed with flowers, silk shawls are plentiful, and I’m picky about my fragrances. But a mirror-engine? That would be...well,I don’t know what it would be, but my gratitude would have no bounds.”
“Really...” he drawled. “I must make a note of that immediately.”
She blushed. “Turn here.”
For the first time, Verity found herself wondering if her home was...acceptable. Her coterie of friends was familiar with Turningstone, so she thought little about it other than it was a relaxing place, and—she hoped—a welcoming one. But now, with Lucas on her arm, she suddenly experienced a few qualms at the thought of inviting him inside.
“Here we are,” she said cheerfully. “I have a faithful tickerkin to see to my needs. She is astounding...”
The opening door stilled her nervous chatter.
“Welcome home, my Lady.”
Sprocket, gleaming brightly, swung the door wide.She must have given herself a good oil and polish, this morning,thought Verity. Probably a good thing, since now her rear wheels didn’t squeak.
“Thank you, Sprocket. Sir Lucas Ashcombe will be joining me for lunch.”
“Very good, my Lady. It will be ready in less than half an hour, I should say.”
“Excellent,” beamed Verity, as she turned to Lucas. “Let’s go into the parlour, shall we?”
