Chapter 10

Simon stood on the walkway, fidgeting. “I don’t like this,” he said.

The large home loomed over them, dark, despite the Chinese lanterns lining the walkway, and not at all inviting.

“In this line of work you do what you’re told, what you must do for the greater good.” Mai smiled as if she enjoyed his discomfort. It was clear she was used to this. Not for the first time, Simon wondered how long she’d been spying for the Independents.

“That’s not –“ Simon closed his mouth and pulled at his tie.

“My father is the head of one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the Core.”

“Pharmaceutical. Is that what they’re calling it now?”

Mai didn’t look at him.

“And besides,” Simon continued. ”He hates me.”

“Not anymore.”

Simon rolled his eyes, unconvinced.

“Look, we’ve gone over this. He’s very influential. If you convince him you’ll be a good son-in-law –“

“Mai –“

She sighed loudly, very clearly annoyed now. “I know, Simon. We’ve gone over this too.”

“I can’t –“

“You have a part to play, as do I.” Her eyes hardened. “If you want to be of any help, you will do this.”

~*~

“It’s good to have you back, Simon.” Mai’s father leaned back and took a careful sip of brandy. “What’s happened to you over the last few years has been terrible, to be sure.”

“Oh, let’s not bring up those uncomfortable memories.” Mai’s mother rested a gentle hand on her husband’s arm.

“Of course not.” Mr. Cheung nodded politely. “We’ve got far more important things to discuss.”

Simon hid his discomfort behind his own brandy glass. He took a sip and smiled tightly at Mai, who had been glued to his side all evening.

“More important things?” Simon asked, oblivious.

“I’m sure Mai has told you about my position.”

Simon exchanged a small smile with his date before he returned his attention to her father. “Honestly, we haven’t discussed much of you since I’ve been back – you understand.” He offered a small shrug.

Mai’s mother grinned happily and squeezed her husban