16
“You may speak freely here,” Val said, placing a coin in each of the black mugs on the countertop. Liquid bubbled and glowed, creating a small cloud of steam. “This apartment is swept twice a day and a noise jammer prevents any long-range observation. You’re safe.”
“Let’s go back to the part where I’m your husband,” Austin said, falling into a leather chair at Val’s kitchen table.
She returned to the table carrying the two steaming mugs and pulled back on her hair. The wig slipped off to reveal silver, wavy curls. He stared in awe.
“Yes, I’m old,” she said, her eyes suddenly appearing more mature. “Older women on this planet enjoy the wonders of DNA reconstruction without regulation. It has come in handy for someone in my line of work. Anyway, we were not able to provide you informa
