Mara smiled, and even from behind, Julian could hear the satisfaction in it. "I thought so. You'll be placed beside him in the lounge. Close enough to converse naturally."
She paused to let Helena navigate forward.
"Talk to him. He enjoys talking about himself, which makes it easy. Men like Kraven, once they decide they like you, become extraordinarily generous."
"Generous how?"
"In the ways that matter. Access. Information. Introductions." She tilted her head slightly. "He has the ear of people in this city that even I can't reach. If he decides you're worth knowing, doors will open for you." A pause. "And I suspect you have use for open doors."
Julian chuckled softly. "I might."
"Good. Then we understand each other."
They walked in silence for a moment, the only sound their footsteps on stone and the faint, distant sound of music from somewhere ahead.
"You seem quite cheerful about all of this," Julian observed.
Mara laughed softly. "Is it that obvious?"
"Somewhat."
