ly more. His boots were wet again, same as yesterday, and the gravel crunched under his feet like teeth. Selene's message burned a hole in his pocket. The words weren't very long. We need

t. The pain behind them had stopped hurting hours ago. His phone buzzed in his pocket. The sound seemed louder than it was. Number not known. He answered without thinking. Yes? Did I wake you up? The voice of Fatima. Smooth. Steady. Caught him by surprise. He responded no, clearing his throat. I didn't sleep. A break. Not weird. On purpose. She remarked, "You sound like you've been hit by a truck." He said it felt more like a bus. A second pause. Tonight there is a formal supper. People with old money and fancy watches, investors, and the property council. He rubbed his eyes. Why are you saying that to me? Because you're coming. Zach blinked. I'm sorry. What? You are now my employee. You're part of the rebuilding project, and they need to meet the people who are doing the work. That means you. Get dressed. Don't smell like diesel. You mean it. I don't waste time on the phone. Fatima I'll send a car. Half past six. Put on something that won't make a donor drop their glass of wine. I don't have anything. Then take it. Get it on rent. I don't care if you rob a mannequin, just show up looking like you belong. He took a breath through his nose. Why are you really asking me to come? Another break. This one took longer. Because you do a good job of cleaning up, Mr. Watson. And I appreciate it when rooms stop and look again. His throat got constricted. Are you sure this won't go wrong? "I'm never sure," she answered, sounding almost amused. But I bet well. The phone call was over. No farewell. Zach looked at the screen. The wind pushed against his shoulders like a warning. He would enter her world tonight. And he had a feeling it wouldn't let him go without hurting him. The Hanover Grand Hotel's ballroom. The light was warm, the chandeliers were made of glass, and the music was quiet behind the buzz of power and polished shoes. Zach stands near the edge with his hands