Xiu hadn’t seen Olesya.
She was kneeling on the rooftop, mostly concealed behind a half-wall, her attention riveted on the café across the street. Olesya moved up behind her, taking cover behind a brick chimney and drawing her NetGun. She recited a phrase in her head, ready to say it without hesitation.
It was now or never. She circled the chimney and found the operative…
…missing.
Xiu rippled into view to Olesya’s side, pistol trained on her.
Olesya lowered her NetGun. ‘I’m not here to hurt you.’
Xiu kept her weapon raised. ‘I shouldn’t be surprised you’re here.’
Olesya straightened up. ‘Children three that nestle near, eager eye and willing ear, pleased a simple tale to hear,’ she recited.
Xiu twitched, her freckled skin going pink. She holstered her pistol.
Olesya remembered to
