“What job?”
Peggy saves me. “Classified, Stella.”
The word freezes Stella for a second, then she nods. “Got it. You’re on the Bits so you’re good. Do you spar with Natalia at Honor?” She’s looking for a partner. Peggy told me about this the last time Asa had a meet here.
I nod. “I did twice. Her trainer lived with her after her parents died and it shows. She’s really good.” I didn't learn like her but held my own with what I did learn.
“Are you here tomorrow?” Her face brightens.
“We’re traveling early. I’m on day shift with Alder.”
She nods, looking let down. “Asa is testing the specialty bots here with me.”
“The ones for out in the open?” Peggy asks. They get to talking and laughing about the showy machines.
When Jeti shows, I bow out. “I’m going to find food. I’ll see you tomorrow.” I see another Protector at the wall where Peggy was standing earlier, she must be on Stella now. Her eyes scan the room but touch down our way for a few seconds longer. Bummer, I was going to ask if she wants to go eat with me. I only know a few Brothers from this Club because Asa did a lot of virtual meets in between his shifts at Bravo and Honor.
Jeti follows me out. “I’m hungry too. I’ve been flying for Nash all day and have a flight with Major tomorrow.”
I don’t ask but I’m glad for the company. Stella said she has a room here even though she’s SAA of another Club. Dinner alone sucks so she can say anything she wants as long as she’s not reading my mind the whole time.
She laughs and I bump her shoulder as we step into the dining room. “Get out of my head, Jeti.”
She laughs louder.
Chapter Three
San Mateo BSC California
Cruise ship dock
One week
Hud
Stepping onto the ship, I feel the little President wiggle, so I stop and bend before he asks.
He slides off my back. “I walk to Pres Jordan side.”
I throw him chin and stand. “Signal me for a ride.”
He nods and runs up to the Alpha President. I do a quick step to walk behind them and wonder where Stella is.
“She’ll be flown over after work.”
The answer to my thought causes me to turn fast. I’ve seen this Brother before. “President at Guardian?” His name is Indian.
“Citiali Nanyehi, I’m VP of Teach out of Guardian Rising. Badass likes making life confusing for Brothers while we make it better for civilians.”
I nod watching Alder answer the Alpha Pres. “The teaching messenger and powerful reader. Citiali, I didn’t know how it was said, Boss. Do I call you VP, or your name?” I never made it to the Teach training. I got the week of shadowing with Tats and Teller Knight training me for VIP.
“All Presidents are by name unless they’re your mother chapter and they’ll tell you. Nova told me to call him Nova. I just use Boss for everyone else. VPs don’t care either way.” He’s a reasonable Brother.
“I will, Boss. You’re not here for the cruise; do you have something for me?”
He smiles but doesn’t turn my way. “I’m not staying but wanted to meet the Protectors here. If I ever talk to you, listen.”
“Roger, Boss. Should I expect that conversation here on a cruise ship?”
