“My name is Arianna Morganna Brittany DuLac--you can imagine why I went by the name Ryan.”

“Vane grabbed me. “DuLac, let’s chat.”Chat. British-speak for “Stand still while I yell at you.”

“Do you think we can be friends?” I asked.He stared up at the ceiling. “Probably not, but we can pretend.”

“Why did you wear heels? How are you supposed to fight a gargoyle in what you're wearing?”

“Plus, I happened to be a history nerd. Why else would I be interested in a guy born in the year 519?”

“Vane’s lips tightened to suppress a smile. “Why so hostile, love?”“You whacked me on the head with a ball!”“You deserved it.”

“Well, can you tell her that?"He looked down at his feet. "I will. I will."Guy-speak for, "I plan to keep avoiding her until she gives up.”