"Look natural, Lockhart," Vivienne muttered, her voice barely a whisper against the low hum of the federal building’s HVAC system.
She adjusted the strap of her oversized tool bag, the weight dragging slightly on her shoulder, but her posture remained straight. Professional. Unbothered.
I didn't answer right away. I held my badge flat against the electronic card reader at the security turnstile, watching the small LED light flicker from red to green. The gate unlatched with a dull, heavy click.
"I'm always natural," I said, stepping through first and holding the barrier open just enough for her to pass. "You're the one gripping that clip-board like it's a weapon."
"Because if anyone checks this manifest, it is a weapon," she shot back under her breath. She didn't look at me, keeping he
