Bennett nodded slowly. “That sounds...pleasant. We’ll be there.”
Lady Ruan clapped her hands. “Perfect! I’ll reserve your seats tonight. I’ve only seen the rehearsals, but it is absolutely phenomenal. Celeste has the most wonderful voice,” she said. “Guests have been swarming the opera house since she arrived.”
After chatting a little longer about opera, we left Celeste to rest. The singer seemed kind enough, and according to Lady Ruan, had a philanthropic view toward witches.
Soon after, Lady Ruan ended the tour, claiming that there was nothing interesting left to see besides storage rooms and stagehands’ quarters.
“It’s getting late, but if you wish for an in-depth tour, I’ll be glad to give one in the near future,” Lady Ruan said. She bid us a good evening and informed us that supper will be brought to our rooms.
Bennett didn’t split off with the others once we hiked up the stairs. The darkening hallway was empty, save for Misty and Pippin. It was with growing dread that I realized no one had arranged a separate room for us. He seemed to catch on.
“Stay,” he said abruptly when I opened my mouth. “I’ll find someone to prepare another room.”
I nodded. Bennett stuffed a hand into his coat pocket and shifted on his feet.
I cleared my throat. “Is something—?”
“I’ve always been awful at this.”
“What?”
Bennett removed his hand from his pocket. His mouth opened, but no sound came out. Then, “May I take Pippin?”
I gave an awkward laugh. “Of course. He’s your cat.”
Bennett knelt and gathered the tabby cat into his arms. He didn’t sling Pippin over his shoulder like he used to. He bowed quickly. “Good night.”
Misty mewed when he left.He’s acting strangely, don’t you think?
I passed a hand over my face. “When is he not?”
26
Adainty gold chainlay in its velvet box, sparkling with rose-cut emeralds and miniature pearl drops. Matching earrings rested in the center. I marveled at the intricacy of the set, but it was nothing compared to the note that came with it.
For you.
