Third person's POV
Frank did not react the way anyone expected. When Liora politely refused his offer, several nearby researchers stiffened, waiting for the explosion. Frank was known for his sharp temper and his impatience with anything that wasted his time. But instead of being offended, the man actually looked… pleased.
“Good,” he said, folding his arms, studying her like a specimen he wanted to take apart. “You’re not desperate. That’s even better.”
A small ripple of murmurs passed through the observers. Frank reached into his pocket and pulled out a sleek black card. He held it between two fingers.
“This is my direct line. Not the one my secretary handles. If you ever change your mind—next week, next year, ten years from now—my institute in the human territories will tak
