“Congratulations on making your first connection here.” Alaric crossed his arms, his tone laced with sarcasm.
The last item on their Z-country itinerary had been checked off, and they were now on the way to the airport. Lena glanced at him sideways. What’s his deal?
“It’s a company connection.”
“Did you not notice how tightly he was holding your hand?” Alaric’s tone was frosty.
“What was I supposed to do? Yank my hand away? Our project’s success might depend on him.” Lena’s voice was calm, though slightly exasperated. The local government representative they’d met wasn’t exactly high-ranking, but she understood the principle of avoiding unnecessary conflict with authority. Surely, Alaric understood this too.
“Our company isn’t so desperate that it needs you to... charm your way throug
