Dominions

29-2

But she only looked up at him and nodded her thanks as he transferred bowls from the tray to the table. He returned to the food prep and brought over drinks, then sat.

As they talked, Sertio kept up a monologue, Paskia and Rodin only talking when he asked a question. They finished with cakes. Paskia looked surprised when Sertio informed her of how his assistant made the sponges from scratch, rather than relying on a ready-mix. She looked over to him, eyebrows raised, and Rodin mentioned how he liked knowing how things came about.

“I sometimes feel that too much is taken for granted,” he said, Terrell playing his part, “and we too readily rely on the work of others. In certain matters, such as preparing food, I much prefer to rely on my own efforts.”

“Of course, my dear assistant, there is a counter-argument in that those who prepare such food professionally do so to a far higher standard. We exist as a society, and as such each should utilise the skills they have in the service of others.”

“True, and dedication does lead to expertise. But equally, a narrow focus limits our opportunities should situations change. For myself, I never set out to become an artist’s assistant, but the various skills I have developed through my previous endeavours enables me‌—‌if I can accept your gracious praise‌—‌to perform this role in a satisfactory manner.”

The words were Terrell’s, but they forced Rodin to think of his own life. Had he not painted himself into a corner, working so hard to be a top mercenary? What of his potential?

Had he not painted himself into a corner, working so hard to be a top mercenary? What of his potential?That word again‌—‌the one Leopold had used.

“Fine sentiments, my friend, and they contain a great deal of truth. Yes, I suppose we are never sure what tomorrow will bring.”

“We make the most of life, and yet that life may end at any moment.”

Rodin turned to Paskia as she said these words. He was certain there had been emphasis on the word ‘end’. Was she giving him a warning, or a threat?

She cast her eyes down. “I’m sorry‌—‌that’s too morbid a thought for such a pleasant meal.” She let out a laugh. “I appear to have a talent for bringing our times together to a shuddering halt, don’t I?”

Sertio blustered, assuring Paskia that he cherished those who spoke plainly, and that none of them should be afraid to speak the truth. Paskia was embarrassed‌—‌acted embarrassed, Rodin reminded himself‌—‌and she rose from the table, saying that maybe it was time for her to leave.

acted embarrassedRodin rose too, ready. This moment of mild confusion might be the cover she was seeking. There were blades on the table‌—‌not sharp, but Rodin knew from experience that even blunt edges could be effective weapons‌—‌and Rodin watched for her to reach for one.

But she walked through to the main living area, picking up her jacket and putting it on. “Thank you most kindly for your hospitality, Sertio. I believe your work will be a great success. But I really must go now.”

She turned to leave, and Rodin followed. “Allow me to escort you, Paskia,” he said, Terrell once more to the fore.

The lift arrived. The doors opened and she stepped in. Then, reaching out to prevent the doors closing, she turned. Her eyes were coated by a fine sheen of moisture, and she swallowed before she spoke.

“Terrell, I‌…‌I have a favour to ask of you. My visits to these rooms have been wonderful, but they’ve also brought back‌…‌at least, I think they’ve helped me uncover‌…” Her hand slapped against the door. “Oh, why can’t I find the right words?”

Her other hand clenched, then unclenched. Rodin watched it carefully‌—‌was this preparation? Had she hidden a weapon in the lift?

“I’ll be blunt,” she said after a sigh. “My mind is filled with confusion, and I need to talk to someone who might, if not understand, at least be a sounding board. Someone who‌…‌who wouldn’t mind spending a short while with me.”

Her voice faded, but also rose in pitch, turning the words into a desperate question. It was a superb performance, Rodin had to give her that. And as an attempt to get him to enter the lift with her, it almost worked. Only with a force of will did he hold back from stepping forward.

Her lip quivered, and when she blinked a small tear ran from the corner of one eye.

The lift Eye would record anything that happened. She’d be aware of this, so he doubted she’d try anything in the lift. He would be safe for a while.

And if he didn’t go with her, what happened next? She’d seek another opportunity to remove him. Today, Rodin was on his guard. Could he stay this alert all the time? In a crowded street, could he watch all the shadows?

Of course, he was seeing Leopold this afternoon, and he could have the contract fulfilled within a few hours. But Paskia might already have contingencies in place, ones he could not fathom yet. She might strike before that meeting. There were countless places she could wait between here and Leopold’s rooms, countless opportunities for an ambush.

If Rodin were being lured into a trap, he would prefer to step into one he already knew about.

Taking a deep breath, he followed her into the lift.