Helena Cross
nocturne
The hotel suite that Helena Cross had booked herself into on Gilaria to oversee the last of her business on the resort world had the attractive quality of overlooking a tranquil cover. Gentle lapping of waves against the shore was interrupted occasionally by the calling of a tropical nightbird. It was almost too idyllic for words. Even Helena, who found holiday worlds tiresome, had to admit as she leaned against the balcony that Gilaria was less tiresome than most.
She still felt distinctly on edge.
She was not one for relaxation, not while she was on the clock. But she couldn't look like she was on the clock.
The charade would be over soon. She had received word that her her work in getting word of the auction coming in front of the Commonwealth succeeded, and she had an appointment with one of their representatives to provide the requisite details. Helena had the room booked out for another week, but she would be gone in hours. That way if the Commonwealth operatives decided to return to clean up loose ends, they'd find an empty room.
Hopefully.
She glanced at her watch and then turned back into the room. From the sideboard she picked up her pistol and checked the cartridge before tucking it into her thigh holster. Helena had no intention of causing trouble. It would be bad for business. But she didn't intend to let anyone get the drop on her, either. Helena shut the balcony door, locked it, then draped a black wrap around her shoulders, snatched up her key and clutch, and headed for the door.
The meeting would be in the hotel lounge. A secluded corner of it, to be sure, but public enough to hopefully avoid a scene.
"Good evening Ms. Cross," the host, an obliging, bronze-skinned man said as she entered. "We have you in the Blacksand Booth, is that correct? Excellent. This way, please."
"I'm expecting company," said Helena pleasantly as she followed him through the lounge. "They'll have my name. Please be sure they're shown in without delay."
"Of course, madam. Here we are. And you'll be charging the evening to -- Suite 1138, is that right?"
Helena smiled a crimson smile. "You've got it, Jannis. Thank you."
"Something to drink while you wait, Ms. Cross?"
"Gin, please," Helena answered. "On the rocks."
Jannis nodded and set off. Helena took a seat in the small secluded seating area, crossing her legs and reaching up to adjust the origami iris pendant at her throat. Nothing to do now but wait.
