"Boggle, where are you? Have any of the others-"  Drogos stopped his forward march the moment his gaze landed on the very woman he has been infatuated with for quite some time now.

Her skin was the prettiest shade of brown he ever laid his eyes upon. Lighter than most descendants of African Americans, and yet darker than when he was before dying. Dark brown, wavy locks framed her diamond shaped face. Her round eyes — they were the very ones that made he stopped in the exact spot he stood. Brown as her hair, they shined with curiosity. The splash of blue in the corner of her right eye was a feature unique to her. One he could stare at for many hours.

“Master?”

Without taking his eyes from his intriguing subject, he answered his servant in a slow, questioning way. "Yea, have any of the others come down? But I'm sorry, is this my house cleaner?"

“Miss.Aliza Rucker, Master Grants.” Boggle extended a hand out as he introduced them. Then he leaned his head, to speak in a lower tone. “Quite a catch if her aura is the best judgment.”

Drogos always admired his goblin servant’s ability to read auras. Laterally, beings such as Boggle were able to read auras as if they were books. Their gifts extended to unusual beings such as himself, meaning Boggle could see that he was infatuated.

“See that Marie is awake. I left her sleeping in my room.”

“Yes, Master Grants.”

He felt his servant's presence acknowledged his request with a bow. And from the corner of his eyes, he saw Boggle wave the attractive woman over.

Her hips swayed in that subtle way some women moved as she approached him. “It's good to finally meet my official boss,” she said, smiling. “My name is Aliza Rucker. You can call me Aliza if you want, Sir.”

“Drogos Grants. Excuse my first reaction. I was genuinely shocked to see a beautiful lady in my house.” He held out his right hand. “Your partner must be one lucky soul.”

“He probably would be if I was seeing someone.” She shook his hand as a light blush colored her cheeks. “I'm not seeing anyone right now. Just trying to get on my feet.”

“Oh, where did you move from?” The question slid easily from his mouth. His curiosity to learn about her was something he was learning he couldn't keep a tight lid on.

“A small city in the north. Honestly, I'm loving the weather here more.”

“Nice weather is a plus to living in any unfamiliar place. I do hope Boggle is treating you well.”

“Oh! He is. He's been a good friend to me.” She nodded her head in a frivolous motion. “I'm grateful for the chance to work here actually. Let me know if I'm doing anything in the wrong. I'm a fast learner and your wife doesn't have to worry about me mishandling her delicate possessions.”

Reliable yet confident. With an adorable little string of envy in her voice. “It's good you're a fast learner. Tonight is going to be a busy one. You don't have to mingle if you don't want to, but I ask that you don't stray too far. You will be making sure the tables are stock on food and drinks. That's all I ask of you for now.”

“Yes, I can do that.”

“I believe you will. Save me a dance later.” He excused himself. Heading into the largest room where his party will be held, he took the room in as a whole.

The room was pretty spacious after all the furniture was pushed against the wall. Party decorations lined the walls. Black and silver balloons scattered the room in various places. He spotted similar decorations in the adjacent room.  A Happy Birthday banner was being put into place by Albert, who stood at the top of a ladder. Luna stood next to the ladder, ensuring the banner was placed in it's perfect spot.

“Yes, Albert, that's the spot there,” Luna called up to Albert. Her tone was light and happy.

“At your will, my lady.” Albert easily set the banner in place before descending.

Luna clasped her hands together, looking from the birthday banner and then to Albert. “Thank you Albert. This party will put everyone in a nice mood.”

Her praise delights him so much. Do you see how he shines for you Luna? Open your eyes before he gives you up. A matter of time isn't forever. Even for us beyond-time beings.

“I will check over tonight's accommodations. Excuse me.” He bowed to Luna before he headed in the direction of the kitchen.

He walked into the room. “So, I see everything in here is coming along well. Where're the others? I thought they all were supposed to be helping.” Drogos walked over to a table where a clutter of balloons lay. He picks up a black one, and he tosses the balloon into the air.

“I think those two, Jewel and Draco, are on their way down, and I thought I heard Boggle looking for Marie. As for Judy, I have no idea, but she isn't here.” Luna rolled her eyes and rotated her right hand.

Drogos had an inkling that she was annoyed that he hadn't complimented her dress. There was no way he was going to encourage her delusional obsession. He'd learned long ago that an innocent compliment from himself meant more to Luna.

“She's free to come and go like everyone.” He walked over to one of the sofas and took a seat.

I suppose I should put on a smile for the coming guests. I hate parties. Thou I suppose it is safe to have one at this time of the year. Who knows, I may even enjoy myself since she is going to be there.