He stared at me suspiciously. “Where do you come in, I wonder? And how much do you know?”

I smiled. “A good deal, Mr. ⁠—er⁠—Lucas!”

He caught my arm, the unconscious strength of his grip made me wince.

“Where did you get that name?” he asked hoarsely.

“Isn’t it yours?” I demanded sweetly. “Or do you prefer to be called the ‘man in the brown suit’?”

That did stagger him. He released my arm and fell back a pace or two.

“Are you a girl or a witch?” he breathed.

“I’m a friend.” I advanced a step towards him. “I offered you my help once⁠—I offer it again. Will you have it?”