Winner Takes All by Susan Hayes

Author:Susan Hayes
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Black Scroll Publications Ltd.

10

Scott had a hundred things he should have been doing. The gala kicked off tonight, which meant many of the most powerful people in the galaxy would be gathered in one place, consuming insanely expensive cocktails while indulging in boardroom power games as an even more dangerous game played out around them.

They were bait in a trap, and it was his job to make sure none of them died when the trap slammed shut.

Unfortunately, that was only one of the roles he had to play. He was also one of the guests and would have to take part in the festivities, which meant spending hours making small talk with allies and verbally sparring with the IAF’s enemies. He’d enlisted Bobbi’s help with both parts of his plan. Her mothers’ societal status meant she was at home at events like these, and since she was aware of the true threat, she’d be able to keep an eye on any potential spies in their ranks and let him know when trouble started.

He should have been working, but instead he was walking the main promenade hand in hand with Phylomenia. The odd thing was, he didn’t feel guilty about the time away from work.

“You see over there? The way your people are moving as a pack?” Phyl inclined her head toward a group of soldiers. They were off duty, but there was no mistaking who and what they were. From their haircuts to the way they moved, they were clearly military.

“I see them. Calmly and quietly enjoying some time off. What’s the problem?”

“Look at the expressions of the beings they pass. The vendors in the promenade are afraid of them.”

“Why would—” He stopped talking as he saw what Phyl meant. A tension flowed through the crowd as the soldiers passed. Some stepped back, others dropped their gaze. In the stores, shop owners and even a few customers went still or drifted to a safe spot near the backs of the stores.

“Fraxx.”

“Now you see it.”

“Wolves among sheep,” he said.

“Wolves are extinct. And these beings aren’t sheep. They’re just ordinary folk trying to survive. And as far as I know, that particular group hasn’t caused any trouble.”

“You’re keeping track?”

“This is my home. I like to know what’s happening.” Phyl shot him a reproving look. “It’s your home, too.”

It was on the tip of his tongue to correct her. He didn’t have a home. Hadn’t had one in years. He had assigned quarters and postings.

He looked around the main concourse. It was familiar. Comfortable. He knew which carts sold his favorite foods and that a shop not far ahead always had his favorite ice cream in stock.

“I hadn’t noticed until now, but you’re right. It is.”

That earned him one of Phyl’s special smiles, the kind that lit up her face and made her eyes glow with warmth. “I’m glad to hear that.”

He laughed and drew her in for a kiss. “You just like that I said you were right.”

Phylomenia blushed.

“What?” he asked, not sure if that was a good sign or a warning signal.

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