She giggled.

  “The pom, silly! I’ve only been asking for one my whole life.”

  “Begging. Crying. Throwing a tantrum. Sometimes you asked.”

  Ana slapped her arms to her hips and feigned shock.

  “You’re not funny, Papa. You and Mama were just stubborn.”

  “Ah. That was all, huh? Good to know. Thought I misread the whole dynamic. So, after the pom, what was your favorite present?”

  She mused the question while shaking her hips.

  “The blue dress Shireena picked out for me.”

  “Oh, you mean the one I gave you?”

  “Uh-huh. I’m sure she picked it out. You’re a terrible shopper, Papa.” She waved Shireena closer. “Thank you so much for the dress. It’s my all-time favorite.”

  Shireena frowned. “But Ana, I ...”

  Trevor halted the confusion.

  “Too late. She knows.”

  “I love Papa to bits, but he’s always nervous when we go shopping. And he’s so cheap. You must have talked him into it.”

  Trevor disputed none of her points.

  “Not at all,” Shireena said. “Give your Father credit. He knows what a certain young lady loves. I didn’t realize blue was your favorite color. I might’ve chosen orange or yellow.”

  She wiped her brow.

  “Yellow is the worst. I forgive you.”

  Shireena curtsied.

  “I’m honored.”

  The music slowed in time, and the adults gravitated to partners. Apparently, that’s where the kids drew the line. Reginald tapped in and offered to switch, leaving Trevor in Effie’s arms.

  “Don’t feel threatened,” Effie said as they linked. “Reggie only intends to pepper Shireena with questions about her childhood. He loves comparing notes with anyone who grew up in a big family.”

  “Why? To see who has the worst horror stories?”

  She chuckled. “Something like that.”

  Damn, you’re as beautiful as the day we met.

  As much as Trevor had come to love Shireena, he couldn’t fathom the stupidity of having lost Effie.

  “The party’s been a hit,” he said. “Pleased with how everything turned out?”

  “Our little girl is. Any quibbles I have don’t matter.”

  The next words fell from his lips with reckless abandon.

  “This is probably our last dance as man and wife.”

  “Could be,” Effie said with a gentle sigh. “It’s official in nine days.”

  “We had great times.”

  “Sure did, Trev. You changed my life.”

  “I’m so sorry we couldn’t make it work anymore.”

  She tapped a finger over his lips.

  “No more sorry. No regrets.”

  His eyes searched the dance floor and found Ana huddled with three boys, giggling.

  “She’s come a long way, Eff.”

  “I know. She handled our separation so badly at first.”

  “It’s been ten months since her last attack. I was afraid it might become chronic again. Doc is sure it’s under control?”

  He hoped never to experience another day like that. Hours before he uncovered the Black Star cell which Hoshi Oda oversaw, Trevor laid on Ana’s bed trying to alleviate her neurofascitis.

  “Doc won’t guarantee she’s free from attacks, but he’s encouraged. Her cognitive functions peaked, and she’s two months ahead on her coursework. She’ll be up to speed with her peers in a few months.”

  “I count my blessings.”

  “And what about you, Trev? How’s the job?”

  She asked the most loaded question of the day, and all Trevor could do was shrug. Where to begin?

  “I’m getting on. Busy. The demands are ... well, my Chief of Staff keeps me organized, and Shireena’s never far away.”

  “A weak answer. In fact, you never say much about it when you come around.”

  He could’ve mentioned how Effie had visited only once in the two months since he took charge. Trevor wisely resisted.

  “If I told you about a typical daily agenda, you’d beg me not to go into detail. Yes, it’s an important job. I shake hands with all the major players. And I think I do reasonably good work.”

  “But?”

  “Most of the day involves sitting in meetings that make a man want to drink. It’s not glamorous. Best thing I did all week was open a Riyadhi restaurant in Haven. Quick. Fresh food. Nice people.”

  She shaded her eyes in a familiar body tic. Effie didn’t buy his explanation.

  “Why did you tense up when I asked about the job?”

  “Did I?”

  “Oh, Trev. We were together for eight years. C’mon now.”

  She always knew how to break him down into a truth-teller.

  “Look, it’s nothing, Eff. Just a hell of a lot of responsibility.”

  “No doubt. For the record, I’m incredibly proud of you. I was as stunned as just about everyone when Haas nominated you to replace Murrill.”

  “Why? Thought it’d be too much for me?”

  She nodded. “Even people who respected you and everything you’ve given to the station had concerns. But what a difference two months can make. You’re probably not aware, but I hear your name invoked every day. And not just because I’m your wife.”

  “I try to tune out gossip.”

  Effie failed to contain her eye roll.

  “You’re such a liar, Trev.”

  “OK. What do people say?”

  “That you listen and you care. They weren’t used to that under Murrill. I’m sure every day is a challenge, but you’re doing amazing work. Don’t doubt yourself.”

  Trevor’s heart warmed. He needed to hear those words.

  He wanted to tell her everything, but it wasn’t his place anymore. They shared new confidants these days.

  Maybe ...

  He cursed under his breath.

  No. This isn’t the right time. It’s ...

  Trevor decided on a strategy for bringing business to his daughter’s party without making it sound inappropriate.

  “Here you are asking about me, Eff, and I haven’t inquired about your job in ages.”

  “Nothing new on that front. Missions can be a little more touchy depending on the assignment.”

  “I’m sure. Your job always had risk. Wherever there are disputes, people can be unpredictable. Speaking of, there must be lots of chatter about the elections. Especially in the diplomatic circles.”

  She stifled a laugh.

  “To put it mildly. You know, it’s always strange when the reps leave to campaign. You can never be sure who will return. This year feels more uncertain than ever.”

  “In a bad way?”

  Effie hesitated before she answered.

  “Possibly. Many campaigns are uglier than usual. This is the first election where some of the opposition receive funding from Black Star. On planets like Catalan, there are three times more candidates. It’s a recipe for instability.”

  Effie tensed. Trevor disliked the direction they headed.

  “I haven’t followed any of the races, except for maybe a couple on Earth. What have you heard?”

  “Like you, I don’t sit around and watch the planetary streams all day. The issues vary from planet to planet. But many candidates say they won’t accept the results if they lose. Complaints of a rigged system. I worry we’re at a tipping point.”

  Trevor felt just enough melancholy setting in to pull back. Maybe she heard rumors connected to the housing mystery. Maybe not. Either way, he refused to use Effie for intel. Not here, not now.

  “It’s happening light-years away, Eff. What do you say we put it aside and enjoy the party?” He looked over her shoulder. “Cake’s almost gone. Want a last slice?”

  He led Effie from the dance floor to the bedraggled remains of what was once a meter-long white cake with blue icing.

  “Not for me,” she said. “I’d rather settle in with a nice café.”

  The slow music ended, replaced by a jaunty, childlike beat.

  “A half-cream?”

  Effie smiled. “I haven’t changed. Thank you, Trev.”

  She retired to the head table while Trevor ventured to the café kiosk to pour two cups.

  He never started the brew.

  Ana screamed.

  His heart jumped, but only for a flicker. Trevor swung about and searched the crowd for his daughter.

  She ran toward a giant target who stood at the dining room’s main entrance. Everyone heard Ana Marie’s greeting.

  “Uncle C! Uncle C!”

  Trevor muttered, “Yep. That’s about right.”

  Of course, Connor arrived unannounced.

  Trevor studied his mountain of a brother. He appeared to have grown taller and wider.

  No. Had to be the uniform. The tight-fitting blue and gray with chest medals accentuated Connor’s muscular girth. He was bald but for a single square tuft of black hair atop his scalp.

  Had it only been ten months?

  Connor bent down on one knee and bear-hugged his niece then lifted her into his arms like a pet. She held tight, head on his chest.

  How did he do it? Gone for so long, reappearing as a new man; yet Ana sank into him as if time stood still.

  Connor carried Ana between the tables without much fanfare. Trevor doubted many of these folks had any idea who he was. He never fit in among the political or administrative classes and moved out of Harmony years ago.

  Trevor met Connor at the head table, where Ana exclaimed to her mother:

  “Uncle C came home just for my birthday. Isn’t he the best?”

  Connor set down his niece and kissed her mother on the cheek.

  “Never seen you more beautiful, Effie.”

  Even his voice underwent a transformation.

  Deeper, harder, rougher.

  Effie smirked at Connor’s compliment.

  “Still talk a smooth game, I see. And unpredictable.”

  He winked, the first sign of the brother Trevor knew.

  “I jumped in a couple hours ago. Needed time to settle in. Feels like it’s been years.”

  Trevor waited his turn, having yet to make eye contact. Connor surely saw the only other seven-footer in the room standing ten feet away. Ana delayed their reunion further.

  “Uncle C, did you ... did you bring me a present?”

  “What? I’m not enough?” He laughed. “Yeah, Annie-M. It’s great, but it’s on the way. Give me a few days. OK?”

  She stood and saluted.

  “Yes, sir!”

  “Nice.” Connor returned the salute. “When you’re near eighteen, we need to talk about the UNF.”

  Connor swung around, hands on hips, and studied Trevor top-down.

  “Look at you, bruv. Top of the ladder and dressed to impress.”

  “I try, C.”

  Connor pointed to the fluffed green collar.

  “That’s some embarrassing shit, right there.”

  Trevor took mock offense, reaching for the collar.

  “It’s the fashion.”

  “Nope. Plain embarrassing, bruv.”

  Connor dropped his judgmental act and set upon Trevor. They hugged it out.

  “I’ve missed you, Connor.”

  “Same here. We need to catch up. You got cigars and liquor in that big office of yours?”

  “I do.”

  Connor tightened his grip.

  “Make your excuses. Let’s clear the fuck out of here.”

  Trevor’s joy dampened. Instinct said Connor gave an order – one Trevor dared not refuse.

  As if on cue, the floaters returned. Trevor heard Mau’s voice.

  “The bag cannot be trusted.”

  16

  MAU PING BETRAYED NO emotion while standing to Trevor’s left, but the Enzathi’s avatar tilted his head and gazed upward. Trevor put his best face forward after breaking from the hug.

  Quiet for two days, and now you show up? Shit.

  “The Enzathi says this one is not to be trusted.”

  He’s my brother. Go away.

  Mau acknowledged Trevor with a slight dip of his chin.

  “It is listening.”

  He vanished but confirmed what Trevor suspected: The Enzathi could read his thoughts, an intriguing yet terrifying reality.

  Trevor raced to salvage the moment before he drew suspicion.

  “Look, C, we’re not going anywhere without introductions. And I’m damn sure not walking out on my daughter’s party.”

  Connor spied key details.

  “Cake’s about gone. Gifts are open. Those guests in the back are leaving. This soiree’s on the downswing, bruv.”

  So much for the guy who never saw a party he couldn’t resist.

  Trevor acted before this joyous reunion disintegrated. He introduced Connor to Effie’s future husband.

  “Reginald Endowi. You two might have met once or twice.”

  Connor extended his hand but did not blink.

  “No recollection. Sorry.”

  “If it makes you feel better,” Reginald said, “I can’t recall myself. But I’ve heard many stories.” He added with a flourish: “All good. I’m honored to meet you, Lt. Stallion.”

  Connor betrayed the hint of a smile, their hands still gripped.

  “Did they tell you my rank, or do you know the bars?”

  “My brother served for eight years. He retired as a Mid-Star.”

  Connor flexed a brow.

  “Is he young enough to re-up?”

  “Possibly. But he has, as they say, let himself go. I doubt he’d pass the physical.”

  “Tell him for me: We need vets. Good men for the fight. Get in shape. Re-up.”

  Connor let go, not a second too soon for Reginald, who grimaced and shook out his right hand.

  “I’ll pass along your message.”

  Reginald quickly took his seat beside Effie and reached for wine. Shireena did not wait for an introduction.

  “Shireena Balance,” she said, extending a firm hand. “I am Trevor’s Head of Safety and ...”

  Connor bypassed the hand to kiss her on the cheek.

  “I know who you are. Trevor’s second coit. Good luck matching up to the original.”

  The hell?

  Shireena retracted her hand but did not lose her smile or grace.

  “I hope we have the opportunity to sit down and get to know each other while you’re here. Trevor loves you very much, and I love him.”

  Trevor glanced at the head table. No one appeared to have heard the exchange.

  One small victory.

  “Sure,” Connor said. “I’m not much in the mood now. Thought I’d swing by. Make a short appearance.”

  “Yeah.” Trevor intervened. “Connor’s had a long trip. I think the time difference might’ve left him out of sorts.”

  “Understandable. I’m thrilled you’re with us, Connor.”

  Trevor sensed something was off from the start. The Enzathi compounded his paranoia. Now a disgraceful insult. He scanned the room, set upon a quick strategy, and pulled Connor aside.

  “I dunno what just happened, C, but you need to get your head right. Tell Ana you’ll see her again tomorrow and can’t wait to sit down for dinner with everyone else. Be gracious. Then meet me up front. Got it?”

  Connor winked.

  “On it, bruv.”

  Trevor found his Chief of Staff at a table alone eating cake.

  “Were you going to say hello, Andreas?”

  “I debated, Governor. I came as you asked, but these affairs don’t sit well with me. I do enjoy this cake. Very light.”

  “Good. Finish up. Then show my brother to my office. I’ll join him after the party.”

  Andreas set eyes on the uniformed mountain of a man.

  “Ah, yes. I passed him on my way in. I ... uh ... you want me to leave him alone in your office? Are you sure, sir?”

  Trevor rolled his eyes.

  “Unless you prefer to entertain him.”

  “No, sir. Not my strong suit.”

  “Good.” Connor approached. “He’ll keep himself occupied. Feel free to head home for the night.”

  “Happily, sir. Thank you for the invitation. The band is very spirited! Oh, yes. I heard from the Portmaster. She sent me the data you wanted. The upcoming arrivals.”

  “Save it for the morning. Here he is.”

  Trevor explained the terms to Connor and finished with:

  “You had a long trip. Clear your head, and we’ll start again.”

  He watched Connor follow Andreas out the door.

  What in ten hells was that? Not the brother I know.

  Trevor returned to the table, a list of excuses and distractions teed up. Ana’s attention veered away as soon as Connor left. She studied her pom, tossing up holos and customizing her comm settings. He leaned over to Shireena to upend an awkward silence.

  “He’ll apologize next time.”

  “It’s OK, Trev. Really, it is. You always said Connor had no filter. It’s what makes you most alike.”

  “He was an asshole.”

  She kissed Trevor and studied him with those moonstone eyes.

  “Others have said the same. She’s a tough act to follow.”

  Trevor cursed himself for pretending the comparisons to his wife didn’t affect Shireena.

  Soon, he thanked the remaining guests and helped Effie and Reginald tote Ana’s gifts back to her flat. Twenty minutes later, Trevor found Lt. Stallion quite at home in the Governor’s office.

  Connor sauntered between the wall art, a smoke cloud trailing. The office smelled of pungent yet sweet tobacco.

  “What do you think?” Trevor asked.

  Connor did not take his eyes off a panorama of Episteme Spaceport.

  “Is your office bigger than the President’s?”

  Figures. He always fixated on size.

  “I don’t know the precise measurements, but it might be a square meter or so larger.”

  “Nice, bruv. Well done.”

  Trevor locked eyes on the beverage display but chose to keep a clear head.

  “It’s more than I need. Speaking of, my suite is next door. I have an extra bedroom.”

  “Thanks, but I’m good. Reserved a guest flat in Haven near my old stomping grounds.”

  So much for those long, intimate heart-to-hearts Trevor hoped they might share. Connor wanted space. Fine.