Zara’s expression didn’t change. “Thank you.”
The call ended. The HellBerry screen went dark.
Zara sat there, perfectly still, as the device on the desk shrank back to the standard handheld size The glamour dissolved slowly, revealing Ramona’s slightly oversized T-shirt underneath.
Ramona counted to ten before she spoke.
“So,” she said carefully. “Comprehensive analysis of foundational architecture?”
Zara’s shoulders tensed.
“Anomalous characteristics falling outside standard taxonomic classifications?” Ramona continued, trying very hard not to smile. “Optimizing the assessment process?”
“I had to saysomething.”
“That was the most impressive pile of corporate bullshit I’ve ever heard.” Ramona set her book aside. “What does any of that actually mean?”
“It means I’m working on it and they should stop asking questions.” Zara finally turned around. Her eyes were shifting between honey and black. “Did it work?”
“Theron looked like they wanted to die halfway through your second sentence. So yes, I’d say it worked.”
Zara’s mouth twitched. Almost a smile.
“Four weeks,” Ramona said quietly.
“Four weeks.” Zara’s voice was hollow.
“And you have to submit progress reports on breaking the binding.”
“Weekly reports. Yes.”
Ramona studied her. There was something in Zara’s expression — something careful and guarded that hadn’t been there before the call.
“That wasn’t what I expected,” Ramona said.
“What did you expect?”
“I don’t know. Yelling? Threats? Demands that you return immediately?” Ramona gestured at the HellBerry. “That was… polite. Professional. They’re letting you work remotely. They praised you.”
“Hell rewards productivity.” Zara’s tone was flat. Corporate. The voice she’d used during the call. “As long as I’m useful, they’ll accommodate me.”
“But they seemed… I don’t know. Nice? Is that the right word?”
“Theron isn’t nice. They’re efficient. There’s a difference.”
Ramona nodded. “Makes sense. You know, I didn’t realize you were sending in reports all this time.”
“Mostly while you slept and I’d finished all the books,” Zara said with a shrug.
Ramona eyed Zara. “Seeing you be all corporate demon was very…”
Zara’s eyes darkened and she moved, climbing onto the bed. “Terrifying? Bloodcurdling? Horrific?”
Ramona grinned, wrapping her arms around Zara’s neck and tugging her down until their lips were brushing. “Hot.”
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Ramona was makingcoffee when reality decided to literally knock on the door.
