"Aren't you precious," says Rinnah, taking a step back to look him over again, smiling beatifically. "Well. When's the wedding?"

"Mom," says Isabella. "I met him yesterday."

"Yes, and it's a wonder either of you can stand, remember when this happened to Jerusha and -"

"And Jerusha couldn't sleep for the first four days, I know, but mine doesn't hurt," says Isabella. "It just does the light and the colors. Anyway, there isn't a wedding planned. Is Dad in?"

"He'll be back any minute, but right now he's still with Nehemiah, talking about -" She waves a hand. "Security arrangements of some kind. I scarcely understand your father's job, you know, why would anyone commit crimes in an angel hold where Jovah watches so closely...?"