Marus Thayn was thinking about going home when he passed Menns slipping down the wide hall of Technical Development with his head down, unnoticed by everyone but himself. Thayn hid his surprise at seeing the other man again. He stepped in front of Menns and cleared his throat. Menns looked up from the patterned floor tiles, nodded an acknowledgment, and moved to step around. Thayn moved to block his path again.
Menns stopped, frowning. “Can I help you? I’m afraid I’m in a bit of hurry.” He once again tried to get around.
“I was hoping to introduce myself.” Thayn cleared his throat again. “We haven’t officially met, and I try to get to know all the new staff. I won’t keep you long. My name is Marus Thayn. NRI Security Head.”
“Ah, yes. Hello. I’m—”
“Yes, I know. Cairnsworth Menns. I’ve s
