"Leila, you remember Xander Reed and Elias Samuelson, of course," I said, indicating the two gentlemen as everyone went on with their own conversations, while Aaron told jokes.

Xander and Elias both nodded. "It's a pleasure to see you again," Xander said.

"The pleasure is mine," Leila returned. Then, she turned to Elias. He had light brown hair and looked a lot like a younger version of his father. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Elias."

He forced a tight ...