I haven't the foggiest idea why Derek's asked me to meet him in the park this afternoon. I have the day off, but I'm supposed to report to Semele's in a couple hours so it's not like I won't see him there. Of course, my brain comes up with a dozen ideas, each one more ridiculous than the last, but I'm only a little disappointed when I see that Neil's with him.

At least that nixes the idea that he's planning on firing me. I can't imagine Derek would do that in front of anyone, much less someone who doesn't even work at Semele's.

Derek notices me and nudges Neil before standing up and I wave.

And then Derek... disappears.

I stop right where I am, eyes wide. Is this... is this a joke? Some sort of trick? I know Derek has certain powers, but I'm pretty sure he can't just disappear into thin air.

"Derek?" I ask, ignoring the fact that I could very well be making a fool of myself right now.