490: Unfamiliar Ground

As they conversed, Desmond sensed an approaching figure. Clarke Zodiac was the one. It was a small guest list, so he wasn't sure how Clarke Zodiac got invited, yet here he was. Emma knew more than Desmond did. Since they had arranged this, she knew exactly why Clarke Zodiac was in this place. "He is not a concern. I give him permission to be here. Emma firmly reassured Desmond, "He wouldn't be here if I hadn't allowed it." Desmond trusted Emma's judgment despite his concerns. "Just use caution. This is not a guy who follows the rules. It would be awful if he did something to harm you." Emma gave a nod. Clarke Zodiac arrived as she was wrapping up her conversation with Desmond. It was obvious why he was here: Emma. Nobody intervened to stop him, indicating that this exchange was expected. "Even though we haven't met yet, Emma, I've heard great things about you. It's good to see you at last. There was some truth to the tales," Clarke Zodiac remarked, flashing a dashing smile. Emma m