Diane read the report twice.
Not because it was long—on the contrary, it was concise, stripped of unnecessary flourish—but because she wanted to be certain she wasn't projecting meaning where there was none.
Subject declined invitation.
Response polite. No hesitation detected.
No follow-up attempt advised at this time.
She set the tablet down slowly.
"So," Sebastian said from across the room, voice mild, "she didn't bite."
The office overlooked the Seine, glass walls reflecting the muted glow of late afternoon. Everything about the space was intentional: minimal, immaculate, difficult to personalize. Power lived comfortably here because nothing lingered long enough to matter.
Diane crossed her legs, posture composed. "She won't," she said. "Not like that."
Sebastian tilted his head slightly, considering. "You sound… impressed."
"I am," Diane replied without embarrassment. "Most people confuse opportunity with safety."
"And she didn't?" Sebastian asked.
