The map session dragged through lunch. By evening, the council chamber smelled like coffee and felt like cardboard. Brandon stacked the last folder. “We adjourn," he said. “0800 tomorrow."
“Envoy," Harrison said quietly as the room emptied. “Walk?"
Charlotte slid the strap of her bag over her shoulder. “Briefly."
They stepped into the colonnade. Air cooled the stone. Lights came on in the courtyard one by one like a patient choosing which thoughts to have.
Harrison kept his hands in his pockets so they wouldn't reach for anything. “About this morning," he said.
“Which part?"
“The part where I asked if you were with Dylan." He stared at the tiles. “It was beneath you. And me."
“Then stop digging," she said.
He nodded. “Right." He tried again. “I didn't see you. I'm… seeing you now."
