Page 91 of Choosing Stella

I wanted to keep him talking, but one of his staff approached and murmured something near his shoulder.

Volkov listened, then nodded to us.

“Enjoy the evening.”

He left with the employee.

Stella waited until he disappeared into the crowd.

“That was creepy.”

“It was polite.”

“That was my problem.”

“You preferred him threatening you?”

“I’d prefer him developing a sudden interest in another city.”

“That would be convenient.”

She finished the last of her Corpse Reviver.

“I’m done.”

I took the empty glass and put it on a passing tray.

“You’re all right?”

“One drink hasn’t touched me.”

“I wasn’t asking about the drink.”

Stella glanced in the direction Volkov had gone.

“I’m fine.”

I didn’t ask twice.

The music shifted into something heavier, bass vibrating through the floor while a costumed couple crossed the dance area near us.

Stella tipped her head toward them.

“We’re supposed to look like we came to a party.”

“We do.”

“We’re standing beside a wall.”

“I like walls.”

“I know.”

She held out her hand.

I stared at it.

“Dance with me.”