Author's note: this is from Seraphina's point of view
- - -
Aldus and I agreed to separate for the mingling part of the event which is on the schedule after dinner.
We want the hosts to approach us, and if they are planning anything fishy, it will be easier if Aldus and I are not together. Neither of us wants to drag this more than necessary, so we want to give them a chance to make their move. After all, the Thompsons invited us here, so they must have an agenda.
Aldus said that he will be at the poker tables. He was not eager to socialize with this bunch of people, and a card game gave him a reason not to talk to others.
"Miss Mezzanotte…", a deep male voice got my attention less than ten seconds after Aldus left my side. "My name is Jonathan Thompson, your host for tonight. I wonder if you will allow me to thank you for coming with a drink and maybe a game of roulette?"
