Nope, nothing can mask that kind of power. And a black imp in Imp Haven is just asking for trouble. He’ll get more powerful in his home dimension. The ring needs subtle magic to make it look like it belongs where it is,
Scrap lectured. He sounded like Gollum when he got wound up on a favorite topic.
“The most powerful of the subtle magics Scrap speaks of is love.” Mickey looked from Gollum to me, the twinkle back in his eyes. “I freely gift this ring to both of you as an engagement token. Anyone looking for the ring will sense the power and assume it is you, Lady Tess and the love you share with the professor, not an artifact.”
Before I could object he ripped the ring from his finger and placed it in Gollum’s hand, gently closing his fingers around it.
“Now if Scrap will return me to my home, we will give you two a moment alone.” Mickey rose to his majestic height.
Scrap landed on his shoulder.
Much as I’d like to stick around and eavesdrop, I think Mickey has the right idea. You ready, Mr. King?
“Yes, Mr. Imp.”
They disappeared in a showy blanket of scintillating mist. I thought I caught a glimpse of Scrap’s face lingering in the swirling lights.
“Tess.” Gollum got down on one knee in front of me and took my left hand in both of his. “I promised to do this. The time seems most appropriate. Tess, beloved, will you marry me?”
I had to swallow twice to get rid of the lump in my throat. “Yes,” I whispered. “Yes!” I said louder. “Yes,” I shouted loudly enough to draw children’s faces to the windows above us and from around the corner to the rose garden.
“Yes!” I shouted with glee.
Then
my
Gollum gently slipped the ring on my finger. It snuggled behind the knuckle as if made for me.