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I hold his gaze.

“One way or another, we’ll save Rapunzel from the tower.”

The words earn a real smile.

“You know Rapunzel escaped with a prince.”

“Did she? Luckily this Rapunzel gets two for the price of one.”

“You genuinely don’t know the story?”

“The tower was tall, I know that much. I’m certain there were hair-related logistics, but hopefully we won’t have to rely on those.”

Bryce laughs again. I want to bottle the sound and keep it in my desk for ever.

A knock comes at the door.

Before either of us answers, Eli speaks from the corridor.

“Everyone fully dressed?”

Bryce’s face turns pink.

I close my eyes. Asshole. There’s the Eli I know and tolerate.

“Come in,” I call.

The door opens cautiously.

Eli looks at Bryce sitting in the visitor’s chair, then at me perched against the desk.

His pale eyes survey the complete absence of scandal.

“You’re talking,” he says.

“Well observed, Poker Face.”

“Fully clothed.”

“Your powers are dazzling tonight.”

Eli ignores me and looks at Bryce.

“I’m impressed.”

Bryce straightens as though he’s received approval from a senior partner.

“Thank you.”

Eli’s mouth shifts by the smallest degree.

“Well done, someone.”

Bryce looks confused, but I’m not. I glare at Eli, but he remains magnificently untroubled.

“What do you want?” I ask.

“To tell you you’re free to take some time out with my blessing. For once. You’ve earned at least the rest of this evening.”