CHAPTER 5. 5. A SPECIMEN OF NAIVETY

Outside, the crimson-black predator requested he wait briefly because it was crucial, and entered the office. There she photographed the written data, learned she had one week for processing and couldn't prevent departure if unsuccessful, smiled rapaciously, and declared that failures occurred in her organization but rarely. While she was inside, he only managed an anxious SMS to his wife that everything remained fine for now. There may be blackmail — photos, threats — but stay firm.

"How delighted I am that you registered!" the huntress rushed toward him upon exiting the office.

"Though I work here locally, I only decided to relocate now. I'd be so anxious traveling alone and living there completely isolated, without support or foundation! How wonderful you've decided too! Come, let's grab something in the break room..." she chattered.

The Sohnut employment needed verification. She'd indeed arrived before opening, but he hadn't seen her leaving yesterday evening when staff departed. He'd be surprised if she had business here beyond him. Most likely she'd delivered the passport with prepared visa this morning, then waited in this same break room for his appearance. However, certain suspicions can't be verified, and needn't be. She'll reveal everything herself now. Main thing—readiness.

"May I first use the local facilities?" requested the hunted creature, feeling vibration in his breast pocket.

"Flying abroad in a week. Can tell everything from there. Don't tell anyone anything yet. Simply went to Moscow seeking work," he informed his wife.

"I see you on the map. Sure you want to keep broadcasting with your mobile? Is that how one hides? Is she beautiful?" his spouse peppered him with questions.

"Thanks. Didn't think. She's repulsive. Only you're beautiful. They're giving me no choice. If I refuse doing what they demand, they'll flood you with photos where they've photoshopped her attractive and me into some macho," he attempted explaining.

"Fear nothing, trust no one, ask nobody for anything," he concluded, shut off the phone, and realized he couldn't extract the battery without a hammer. Then he tucked both devices back in their places and pressed the flush.

The break room was finished with soft padded upholstery resembling late-Soviet entrance doors. He thought such soundproofing should include radio jamming, and the lock should be self-locking. Therefore he requested leaving the door open.

"Oh certainly, I myself avoid being alone with barely-known men!" she replied.

"Incidentally," she continued, "we have only one week to stop being strangers. Shouldn't we continue acquaintance right now, discovering how well we suit each other before ending up under one roof long-term? We could take turns questioning each other..."