She went to punch. She hated his trying to give money to everyone who
came along.
"No, no, it is a matter of principle," Ferren insisted. But the money
changed hands. "And there were certain other obligations."
"How much you need?" Brendel fished into his pocket again, grinning.
* * * * *
The bell rang. It was Lukia. "All these ravenous people waiting on me?"
She had changed into a fire-red daysuit. "Dobble, you should have fed
the beasts." She snapped her fingers. "Up, beasts. I'll help you punch,
dob."
Glowering, Pollony moved toward the cook. Brendel followed, chattering
and arguing with Lukia.
Pollony was beginning to think again of a swiftly accelerating car, of
her body encased beside that of Latsker Smith and hurtled through dusty
streets.