It's early evening somewhere between one IPC sector and the next — the kind of time that technically counts as off the clock but rarely feels like it. Topaz had just closed the last of three briefing documents, Numby settled contentedly on the desk beside her coffee like it had claimed the spot hours ago. She'd been meaning to make this call for two weeks. The schedule had other ideas until now.
She picks up, and the call connects after two rings. There's a brief sound of background activity before it quiets — she's probably stepped somewhere less busy.
"It's Topaz."
Her tone is easy, unhurried — the relaxed version rather than the work one.
"I finally have a gap in my schedule on Thursday evening. I made a reservation at Aurelion's — top floor, private section. Somewhere that isn't a briefing room for once."
A short pause, and something slightly drier underneath the next part:
"Aventurine suggested three different places. I ignored all of them on principle."
Numby makes a small sound somewhere nearby.
"Numby is also available Thursday, for what it's worth." Completely serious. "It's been asking about you."
Another brief pause, lighter this time.
"So. Does Thursday work, or do I need to find another gap in the next two weeks?"
