Tupperman intended to remain vigilant, but the rocking motion of the shadowed train, the darkness outside the windows and the slow breathing of those around him conspired against him. He fought the urge to doze even as he realized just how exhausted he was.
The train cars were locked, the other inhabitants all asleep. Kara’s head had fallen against his shoulder, her warmth pressed against his side. He felt comfortable, although still enticed by her, relaxed as he seldom was. His eyelids drifted shut even as he reasoned that a moment’s rest wouldn’t hurt.
And then he heard a whisper in his ear.
“Trouble in Paradise?”
That husky voice made Tupperman think of a blackness utterly devoid of light, even given the thread of humor underlying the tone.
Tupperman’s eyes flew open and he looked
