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“I’m coming with you,” Daruka said.

Queenie glanced at the giant hole where once a windowpane had been. “I need to get back to my shop as well.”

Guess we were all retreating to our collective businesses and leaving Cassandra to figure it out on her own. I was down with that.

“River,” Queenie barked in that authoritative voice that always made me wince. “Take Cassandra over to the genie and introduce them. Make sure the interaction goes smoothly. You know how temperamental he can be.”

“I…”

They all four blinked at me, and I lost my nerve before I could say that I, too, had to get back to my own business. My own life. As far away from Cassandra as I could get without leaving the city limits.

Sonofabitch.

“Fine. Let’s go.” I stomped toward the door.

“No, wait,” Cassandra called out. “I need a shower. Fresh clothes. I can’t go anywhere like this.”

Was she covered in dust and debris?

Yes.

Was her cute little sundress probably ruined?

Yes.

Was her hair a mess?

Yes.

Did she have a giant bruise on her cheek that probably should be iced?

Also, yes.

Was she still the most stunning woman I had ever encountered in my entire long life?

Damn it…yes.

“Come back to the B&B with us,” Daruka said.

“Queenie had your luggage delivered already,” Asmoday added.

Queenie beamed.

“Daruka will show you your room so you can clean up. We’re having a few folks over for dinner to celebrate your arrival,” Asmoday announced, which I could tell was a surprise to Cassandra.

“The genie can’t resist my ribs,” he boasted. “Give him until his third serving and then ask. He’ll be too stuffed and too happy to say no.”

Cassandra looked dubious. “When did you have time to plan a party?”

“I told you, Asmoday loves to throw parties,” Queenie pointed out.

“You said he manages the only accommodations in town, so that’s where I’d stay if I decided to accept the job, which, technically, I haven’t done yet.”

Queenie gasped. “Are you considering saying no?”

Cassandra shook her head. “No. But⁠—”

“Oh, good,” Daruka said on a sigh.