Axis felt every eye in the room burning his skin, adding to his collection of scars. He embraced Lexia, if only to bury his face in her hair, breathe deep of her fresh scent, and hide from Winter’s scrutiny. More than anything, he wanted to kiss her and celebrate their engagement. But first… People…

Someone clapped, and Axis peered over to see it was Dr. Tempest. Others joined until it formed a chorus. Rhyme whistled, and someone else cheered. A boom of jovial activity came from outside where tonight’s events were still being broadcasted.

Lexia squeezed at the same time Axis made eye contact with his father. Valve was not clapping. He was smiling most unpleasantly. Axis shuddered, and his lover squeezed him tighter.

Against his jaw, Lexia whispered, “I love you, and I’m so proud of you. Just wait until I get you alone.” It was something to look forward to, and Axis knew she’d intended it that way. If only they could get through the ocean of congratulations first before they found harbor in each other.

A hand clapped Axis on the back, and, in his growing panic, he whirled on the attacker.

The Count.

Gauge, the man who would officiate their wedding ceremony, smiled knowingly into Axis’ face. He squeezed his cane between his bicep and his chest to clap his gloved hands together, saying, “Congratulations, you two.”

Axis narrowed his eyes. Gauge didn’t look like the same man who’d just danced with Lexia, his desire naked in his eyes. No. He looked… Had someone told Gauge about Axis’ phobia? Because he looked impressed.

Lexia took over the public engagement by smiling up at Gauge. “Thank you, Count. It seems I’ve stolen the show from you twice in one evening.” Her decorum was flawless for someone who’d never attended these events.

“You can have my spotlight anytime, Ms. Tempest.” There was more than a hint of admiring flirtation, and it straightened Axis’ spine. Before he could warn the Count off, Gauge said, “I look forward to the engagement counseling, Master Flicker.”

Axis fought not to wince. It was a formal requirement to discuss any intended engagements with the officiator so Gauge could approve the match. Obviously, Axis had bypassed this formality, and the Count intended to see it through.

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Strangely, for the second time that night, Gauge’s intrusion filled Axis with an icy resolve. He slipped an arm around Lexia’s waist, pulled her close against his side, and said, “You’ll see me soon, Count Snow.”

The man had the nerve to wink at Lexia before stepping aside for Dr. Tempest.

Lexia’s father kissed his daughter’s cheek and shook Axis’ hand. “Congratulations! I knew you could do it, my boy.” To Lexia, he said, “I wish your mother were here.”

Axis felt Lexia’s mood shift. It was in the lessening of her grip on him, and the stiffening of her shoulders. She was trying not to cry. “As do I.”

A moment of silence fell over the crowd as Winter mourned its lost Diamond. Two years gone without Lya’s presence was two years too long.

“Mrs. Tempest, can I help you make lemon cookies for Lexia?”

“Of course, Axis. You can measure the flour.”

Axis tried his best with the scoop, but somehow he’d been too rough and scooted the bag all the way off the counter. It exploded in a plume of white powder.

Lya’s immediate laughter filled him with joy, and Axis smiled up at Lexia’s mother. She said, “C’mere, let’s get you changed—”

No.

Axis tried to keep her from pulling off his shirt, but he was small and he didn’t want to hurt her by fighting.

The shirt came off, and Lya went still.

Axis felt the first tear fall on his floured cheek.

Winter’s Diamond.

“Well, my boy, are you planning this wedding before or after my funeral?” Valve interrupted the precious moment and coughed violently into his dark handkerchief.

Again, Lexia saved Axis from answering. “Per the laws of matrimony, we will wed six months from now. Perhaps, if you quit the cigars, you may live long enough to see it.”

“My dear, men have so few joys in life. Most of which I can’t list in polite company. So excuse me if I enjoy myself while I can.” Valve missed Lexia rolling her eyes to Axis’ amusement because he looked over at Dr. Tempest. “Leon, I expect to discuss expenses with you soon. Be sure these two don’t spend the night together or risk Winter’s legal involvement. Everyone else, good night.”

On the night of Axis’ engagement, Valve Flicker turned his back on his son. He was likely off to some brothel. It wouldn’t matter in six months when Axis married Lexia, and officially became a member of Dr. Tempest’s family.

The congratulations carried on well into the night much to the detriment of Axis’ nerves. Lexia, bless her, must’ve sensed it. She rubbed circles on his back or gently squeezed his hand. Once, she said into his ear, “Soon, my love,” on the most arousing husky breath.

Yes, Axis couldn’t wait to get her alone. They still had to have her home by curfew, but he promised to make their two hours together count.