Ivy nodded and took a sip of her juice. Sounds good to me. What do you think?
My jaw dropped. I couldnt believe what I was hearing. I cant give you my wishes.
The leprechaun bobbed her head. Yes, you can.
No, I said impatiently. I mean, I need them. A pang of worry had settled into my gut at the thought that maybe Ivy was right. I already used one to not get caught letting her go, I said. I have to wish to get out of my contract, for starters.
Uh, the leprechaun stammered. I cant do anything about that if its in writing.
Jenks gave a snort of derision. Not that good, eh?
Shut your mouthbug! she snapped, color showing on her cheeks.
Shut your own, moss wipe! he snarled back.
This cant be happening, I thought. All I wanted was out, not to lead a revolt. Youre not serious, I said. Ivy, tell me this is your twisted sense of humor finally showing itself.
She met my gaze squarely. I never could tell what was going on behind a vamps eyes. For the first time in my career, she said, Im going back empty-handed. I let my take go. She waved a hand in the air. Opened the trunk and let them run. I broke regulations. A closed-lipped smile flickered over her and was gone. Is that serious enough for you?
Go find your own leprechaun, I said, catching myself as I reached for my cup. Jenks was still sitting on the handle.
She laughed. It was cold, and this time I did shiver. I pick my runs, she said. What do you think would happen if I went after a leprechaun, muffed it, then tried to leave the I.S.?
Across from me, the leprechaun sighed. No amount of wishing could make that look good, she piped up. Its going to be hard enough making this look like a coincidence.
And you, Jenks? I said, my voice cracking.
Jenks shrugged. I want a wish. It can give me something the I.S. cant. I want sterility so my wife wont leave me. He flew a ragged path to the leprechaun. Or is that too hard for you, greenie weenie? he mocked, standing with his feet spread wide and his hands on his hips.
Bug, she muttered, my charms jingling as she threatened to squish him. Jenkss wings went red in anger, and I wondered if the dust sifting from him could catch fire.
Sterility? I questioned, struggling to keep to the topic at hand.
He flipped the leprechaun off and strutted across the table to me. Yeah. You know how many brats Ive got?
Even Ivy looked surprised. Youd risk your life over that? she asked.
Jenks made a tinkling laugh. Who said Im risking my life? The I.S. couldnt care less if I leave. Pixies dont sign contracts. They go through us too fast. Im a free agent. I always have been. He grinned, looking far too sly for so small a person. I always will be. I figure my life span will be marginally longer with only you two lunkers to watch out for.
I turned to Ivy. I know you signed a contract. They love you. If anyone should be worried about a death threat, its you, not me. Why would you risk that forfor I hesitated. For nothing? What wish could be worth that?
Ivys face went still. A hint of black shadow drifted over her. I dont have to tell you.
Im not stupid, I said, trying to hide my disquiet. How do I know you arent going to start practicing again?
Clearly insulted, Ivy stared at me until I dropped my gaze, chilled to the bone. This, I thought, is definitely not a good idea. Im not a practicing vamp, she finally said. Not anymore. Not ever again.
I forced my hand down, realizing I was playing with my damp hair. Her words were only slightly reassuring. Her glass was half empty, and I only remembered her taking the one sip.
Partners? Ivy said, extending her hand across the table.
Partners with Ivy? With Jenks? Ivy was the best runner the I.S. had. It was more than a little flattering that she wanted to work with me on a permanent basis, if also a bit worrisome. But it wasnt as if I had to live with her. Slowly I stretched my hand to meet hers. My perfectly shaped red nails looked garish next to her unpolished ones. All my wishesgone. But I wouldve probably wasted them anyway. Partners, I said, shivering at the coldness of Ivys hand as I took it.
All right! Jenks crowed, flitting to land on top of our handshake. The dust sifting from him seemed to warm Ivys touch. Partners!