F-619: Crystal Coast Resort, The Quartz Room
Everything is neat and clean – no dust – and looks to be set so things can be readily altered, all the furniture has both wheels and gecko feet, for example. Some marks on the floor indicate there has been a conference table in here previously, but it’s difficult to say if it was removed for this meeting. It’s possible these rooms are reconfigured all the time.
They will have time for a brief discussion before an attendant arrives with a trolley.
“‘scuse me Mers, I’ll just set this up for you. I’m told your other party should be along soon.”
Fresh coffee is set brewing on the side table, as is hot and chilled water, infusion pods and a small plate of sandwiches and snacks.
The attendant excuses themselves.
Would they like to discuss or do anything before their ‘other party’ arrives?
How will they prepare themselves for someone else’s ‘entrance’?
“He certainly enjoys making an entrance. Then again he didn’t know when we might arrive.”
“Understandable. Well, what’s the plan? Is there anything you aren’t willing to do?”
She gives him a long look followed by a sigh.
“There’s something you should know about me, about what I do. I’m an escort. This has nothing to do with my duties as part of the Spanial, they are two totally separate jobs. Zayaire is aware of my other profession and since I have already refused him as a client, he may leverage this to change my mind.”
She is watching to see his reaction.
Oliver nods. “Okay. Good to know.”
She raises her eyebrows.
“Okay?”
She laughs.
“You’re an unusual man Mer Starr.”
“Everyone has an aspect of their life they may or may not be proud of. More certainly everyone has an aspect of their life everyone approves of. Me included.” He looks around to further take in the room. “If we weren’t in this environment I might tell you of my aspect. I appreciate you sharing yours.”
Not everyone approves of***
She raises her eyebrows over his first sentence.
“It seemed expedient under the circumstances. In terms of lines I am unwilling to cross, that is mine. However, if the crew’s safety and freedom are at risk… well, that might change the game. How about you? Anything you aren’t willing to do if asked?”
Oliver thinks. “I won’t betray the crew.”
She smiles.
“That’s a good start. Anything else?”
“Not really. I’m sure I’ve done worse things thsn the overcrat can cook up on the fly.”