“Minimal,” I say.
“Enough.”
Silence settles between us. Not uncomfortable. Just… measured.
Up close, the details become clearer. She carries herself differently than expected. Not like someone displaced. Not like someone waiting.
There is intention in every stillness. That is what draws attention.
Not appearance. Not expression.
Structure. She’s built around control.
And that makes her… noticeable.
Which is a problem. She’s not a factor to be noticed. She’s a variable to be contained.
“You should remain in the east wing,” I say.
“I am,” she replies.
“This corridor leads elsewhere.”
“I know.”
“Then why are you here?”
“To confirm that it does.”
A beat. Honest. Not defensive.
“Return to your rooms,” I say.
She holds my gaze for a second longer than required. Then turns. Not quickly. Not reluctantly. Just decisively.
She walks back the way she came. I watch her until she disappears from view.
Then I continue toward the garden offices.
* * *
The third report is shorter.
11:14 — garden access. Escorted.
11:22 — perimeter observation.
11:31 — counts exits.
11:39 — returns.
“She’s mapping,” Luca says.
“Yes,” I agree.
“She’ll push further.”
“Yes.”
