Page 301 of The Wishing Game

I assume she's going back inside as she walks by, but she surprises me by taking a spot next to me and leaning against the wall.

"The crowd can be a crush. I've never been a fan of these events, but Arwyn looks lovely," she comments.

As I was about to put my guard up thinking she's looking for more gossip on Ze, she surprises me with her kind remark.

"She is beautiful." My lips pull into a smile. "And she looks so happy. I'm glad the ball turned out so well for her."

"It is by far one of the most successful debuts I've ever been to."

"You've been to a lot?" I blink.

She nods.

"Hundreds. But that is to be expected at my age."

She doesn't offer a number, but the implication is enough to note she's old—very old.

"This is my first one. I've only been in Aperion for a short time."

"You are human, no?" She tilts her head to the side.

"Does that bother you?"

"No, of course not. I am not a snob. I have nothing against humans or any other mortal species. We have created them, have we not? Why should we look down on our creations?"

"I've heard that not many share your view."

"They are snobs," she scoffs. "And far too arrogant for their own good. We might be eternal, but we are not invulnerable. That is something that too many of my kind tend to forget."

"I'm Luce," I offer, extending my hand.

A smile curves on her lips.

"Anami. Pleased to meet you."

"What House are you from?" I ask out of curiosity.

"House of Psyche," she answers.

"Oh, do you oversee souls after they die?"

"Some do. Not me," she replies succinctly.

It's on the tip of my tongue to question her more. Nikki is still around in his soul form, and since I quit the Game, I'm anxious to know what more I can do to get to him. The letter mentioned that he is not with the House of Psyche, but that doesn't mean they wouldn't have more information—they are the soul guardians, after all.

"Oh," I murmur.

"Someone you knew died recently," she states. It's not a question. It's an observation.

I nod.

"Your...husband," she continues.

"Yes."

A sad smile tips her lips.

"My husband died, too. Many, many years ago."

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