“No.”

“So just a ring then?”

“A sensible ring.”

“Define sensible.”

“Something I could wear every day while doing my job and not be afraid to lose, because it’s too expensive.”

He didn’t say anything.

“I mean it, Rogan. Do not buy me a one of a kind diamond the size of a grape.”

He laughed, my mad, mad dragon.

“I’m serious!”

“Of course, dear.”

This was going to be one wild ride.

Victoria Tremaine strolled through the garden path, painfully conscious of the man next to her. Roses bloomed on both sides. She never cared for roses. She preferred simpler, sturdier flowers. Like carnations.

“You have to admit, for a prison, this is rather posh,” the man said.

“A prison is a prison, even if it comes in the shape of a country club.”

“Think of it as a long-deserved vacation. Something tells me it won’t last long.”

They strolled on.

“Your granddaughter sent shock waves through H-town.”

Victoria smiled.

“Last I heard, they are beginning construction of a new family home. Not far from House Rogan’s country place, from what I understand.”

“Who wants a long commute to visit the family,” Victoria said.

“Indeed.”

“Whatever happened to that little weasel, the one who started this mess. Brian Sherwood? I heard his brother killed him.”

“He did. Disemboweled him with one of Sturm’s swords apparently.”

“I didn’t think he’d have the guts.”

“Victoria! You’re terrible.”

“I thought that was quite clever. What about the wife?”

“Edward and Rynda are engaged. They are retiring to the West Coast. Apparently, Edward wants to grow apples on an orchard, and she can’t wait to go with him.”

They strolled some more.

“Do they suspect you?” she asked.

“No. They’ve made their last round of arrests from Olivia’s files. I’m in the clear. The cause isn’t dead, Victoria. We will build New Rome. It will take time, a few years perhaps, but we will persevere.”

“Without me.”

“That would be a shame.”

“There is nothing you can offer me,” she said.

“Oh, I don’t know. You might change your mind. You’re like me, Victoria.” He grinned. “You like to do things that make life interesting. We both do so hate to be bored.”