“So we’re talking about a man who is capable of murder and arson?”
“Yes.”
“Anything else?” Aiden asked, waxing enthusiastic.
Another man eager to take on a mission, Lucy thought. She smiled to herself. Whatever else you could say about him—and there was a lot to say—you had to give Gabriel credit. He knew how to assemble a team and infuse them with his love of the job.
“One more thing,” Gabriel continued. “He may be wearing a gray amber pendant like the ones I showed you today, but that’s not a great clue, because he probably conceals it under his shirt and jacket.”
“Is he married?”
Lucy realized Gabriel was looking at her, silently asking for an opinion.
“Unlikely,” she said. “He doesn’t appear to be good husband material.”
“But you think he’s been in town for about four months?” Aiden pressed.
“That’s my theory,” Gabriel said. “Where are you going with this?”
“I may be looking for a professional.”
“Professional mercenary? Yes, that’s exactly what I’m trying to tell you.”
“No, sir,” Aiden said. “A professional sex worker. He or she might remember seeing an unusual amber necklace on a client.”
Lucy leaned forward. “That’s a brilliant idea, Aiden.”
Aiden glowed. “Thanks, Ms. Bell. I just hope it works.”
“I can save you some time locating a professional,” Lucy continued. “I know one who lives here in my apartment building. Veronica Star. She’s a disciplinarian. Works at the Dungeon Club. Knows everyone in the business.”
“Stage name, I assume?”
“Of course. I’ll go down the hall and ask her to contact you immediately. I’m sure she will be delighted to do a favor for the Guild. It’s obvious everyone in town wants to do favors for your organization.”
“That is good to hear. It means our public relations program is rolling out the way I envisioned. I’ll wait for Ms. Star’s call. Meanwhile, Mr. Jones, I’ll go into the Guild database and see what I can find out about this Tuck guy. But unless we get lucky, it’s going to take a while. I’ll call you as soon as I have information.”
“Thanks, Aiden,” Gabriel said.
He ended the call and looked at Lucy, who was getting to her feet.
“Where are you going?” he asked.
“Down the hall to talk to Veronica.” Lucy checked the time. “It’s early yet. I should be able to catch her before she leaves for work.”
“I’ll come with you.” Gabriel smiled. “Public relations are important. The Guild wants the citizens of Illusion Town to know that we appreciate their assistance.”
“If you’re tempted to sign up for a half-priced package of therapy sessions, save your money. I’ll be happy to accommodate you at full price.”
“Deal.”
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
It was only seven o’clock in the morning, but the CEO’s suite was in a state of controlled chaos. Gabriel froze in the doorway. Otis, perched on his shoulder, nearly fell off. He chortled, apparently convinced the sudden stop was a new game.
“What in green hell?” Gabriel said.
Lucy managed, barely, to keep from colliding with him. She found her balance and studied the scene.
“I’m impressed,” she said. “You hired an interior designer. Excellent move. You need a statement office.”
“I didn’t hire a designer,” Gabriel said. “It was Aiden’s idea.”
“That figures,” Lucy said. “But, hey, a CEO is known by the quality of the talent he hires, so congrats to you for having the smarts to hire Aiden.”
Gabriel looked at her.
She gave him a sunny smile.
The spacious suite was crowded with workers and craftspeople engaged in measuring walls, windows, and the floor. An imperious-looking woman in a crisp business suit and heels stood in the center of the whirlwind. She was engaged in an intense conversation with Aiden.
“Mr. Jones doesn’t want any loud, over-the-top colors,” Aiden said. “He was very explicit about that.”
“What colors in particular does he want to avoid?” the woman asked.
“Any colors that would make people think of a casino or a nightclub,” Aiden said. “You must understand, Ms. Fortune, the Guild has a long and noble history. This office should reflect that. I agree we want to project a forward-thinking vibe, but the space must also invoke the history of the organization. As I’m sure you’re aware, green and amber are our traditional colors. They harken back to the Era of Discord, when the Guilds were founded.”