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father would never allow such a thing.”
    “Do you need his permission?”
    “Well…no, not legally. But I wouldn’t want to create ill will with my family. I cause enough trouble as it is,” I admitted sheepishly.
    “Perhaps I could convince him? I know this appears forward of me, but I can assure you that my intentions are honorable. Miss Dubois comes from an old, respected family of guardians, and you would be safe and well cared for in her employ. She owns a large home, and I’m sure she would be happy to have you stay with her.” He sounded very sincere, and I sensed no deception or trickery from him.
    “I’m not certain—”
    “Will you at least think on it?” he interrupted. “Seers are so very rare, and there is so much more you could be doing. To waste your abilities…it is almost criminal.”
    I blushed. “I do not disagree, but it is not that simple. I would like to do more, but I have always been bound by the expectations of propriety.”
    “I understand. Miss Dubois often voices a similar complaint, though there are few who will openly argue with a guardian. Please consider my offer.” He smiled, and I watched him as he turned and walked down the stairs.
    Indeed it was something to consider, and the matter would require some research if I wished to pursue it. I wasn’t about to sail on the next ship to New York in search of a new life, but a part of me was thrilled by the idea. Aiding a guardian in solving mysteries—how exciting! And far better than marrying a sorcerer, but Father would never agree to let me go. It was as unlikely as the hope of having some sort of life with Michael.
    Turning, I looked down the empty hallway. Aside from the promise of a second kiss, I had no expectations of anything from him. There was no future for us…there may not even be a future for him at all. My stomach sank, dropping like a stone to the bottom of a pond, and I forced myself to return to the room I had just left. Visions of the future were malleable. If I warned Michael and Mr. St. Jerome of the danger, perhaps they could take additional precautions during the ritual.
    I knocked lightly before entering, and found Michael and Mr. St. Jerome standing before the fireplace. Neither of them looked happy, and from the tension in the air I knew I had interrupted an argument. I paused, uncertain of what to do.
    “Thank you for your aid, Miss Wright,” Mr. St. Jerome greeted with a polite bow.
    “I am happy to have helped.”
    “Are you?” he asked. The question startled me, and I glanced at Michael. Had he told his mentor about my discovery? I folded my hands, choosing my words carefully.
    “Well, of course I am not happy about Miss Morgan’s unfortunate fate, and I would like to see justice done for her and her family. If my abilities can be of use in doing that, then I will do my best to help.”
    “That is very diplomatic of you. I imagine you do not often use your abilities in such a manner in your role as a matchmaker.”
    Though his tone was neutral, I could not shake the feeling that he meant it as an insult. I frowned, uncertain of how to reply.
    “Emily is a woman of many talents,” Michael said.
    “So you have mentioned. My apprentice speaks very highly of you, Miss Wright, and quite often.” Mr. St. Jerome peered at me, and though I felt a chill from his gaze, my heart soared at the idea that Michael spoke of me often. “I must admit, I have not met a seer in many years. The last one I knew served as an advisor to the king of France. He was a very powerful man.”
    His words made me feel small, but I squared my shoulders. “I’m sure he was. My work may be more domestic, but it is important to those I have matched.”
    “I suppose a woman would consider romance a worthy goal.”
    “I suppose a man would belittle its worth,” I retorted hotly. “I have found three people their soul’s mate, and I can assure you that they consider that knowledge priceless.” I regretted the words