he atmosphere in th

passed by. Friendly greetings became brief nods. Tasks that o

ily, and spoke in gentle tones that hid sharp intentions. She made herself visible in the

ring a coffee break, her voice soft. "But someone w

s spread

wed almost immediately. Some eyes turned toward the heroine.

aced her steps, checked the records, and located it exactly wher

an awkwa

ance, her pleasant smile fading f

ppear around the heroine and how she resolved them without compl

ce without knocking. "You're being too kind,"

ith competence," Alexander re

hardened briefly before s

every movement was being watched. She did not rush. She

look at her differently. Doubt replaced c

h girl

e as she watched the heroine gather he

ed the heroine until she disappeared into the elevator. Wh

was he willi