Page 36 of Alien Burn

Sereya swallowed. “Who?”

Roemary gave her a patient look.

“Dhomhes. Between the upper rooms and the guard station. The staff say he's been using that passage all morning.”

Sereya looked at the doors.

“He seems busy.”

“They all do. It's a very effective way of making themselves important.”

“People are still⁠—”

“Don't begin that again.”

Sereya lowered the fruit to her plate.

Roemary leaned closer.

“When he comes through, I'll be at the window. You stay here until he gets near, then go and find something you need.”

“What do I need?”

“Tea. Another napkin. Use your imagination.”

“And leave you here alone.”

“Exactly.” Roemary smiled. “You do understand.”

Sereya looked down at her cup. She had already refilled it once.

“Don't rush,” Roemary added. “He should notice you leaving. Otherwise there's no point.”

Sereya nodded. Across the room, two women laughed over a belt that wouldn't fit. She watched them longer than she should have.

“Finish eating,” Roemary said. “You can't get up with your mouth full.”

Dhomhes arrived with an aide and a guard.

He stopped just inside the gallery to listen to an attendant. Sereya couldn't hear the question, but the attendant pointed toward a service door. Dhomhes nodded, spoke to the guard, and waited while the male checked something on his wrist display.

Roemary rose and walked to the window.

Sereya folded her napkin. Unfolded it. The pale fruit had left a spot on the corner.

Dhomhes started toward them.

Five steps away, Sereya got up.

She had done this often enough to manage it without appearing hurried. Turn a little toward the serving counter, cup in hand. Give the approaching male room. Leave an empty chair where he could see it.

She hated how easy it was.

“Gol-Vett.” Roemary's voice was warm with surprise. “At last. Have they allowed you breakfast?”

“A portion of it.”

“You should sit down. We have room.”