Chapter 3: [3] Thirty Seconds Too Long
"Sonderism. It's the realization that every person you pass has a life as complex as your own. Dreams, fears, ambitions. The woman who makes your coffee? She's writing a novel. The doorman? Three kids in college. Everyone's the star of their own movie, everyone thinks they matter." Xavier adjusted his platinum cufflinks, watching floor numbers tick upward in the mirrored elevator. "But here's the truth – they don't. Not to me."
The voice in his earpiece sighed. "Are you monologuing again? Christ, X, focus on the job."
"Darling, I invented focus." Xavier ran a hand through his snow-white hair, styling it to perfect dishevelment. His purple eyes caught the light as he smiled at his reflection. "Besides, what's the point of being this sexy if I can't admire it occasionally?"
"The point is getting the keycard, scanning it, and getting out. Not philosophizing about random strangers."
"Mila, you wound me. I'm establishing my mindset." Xavier straightened his black silk tie. "Avery Hemmingway wouldn't rush. Avery Hemmingway savors."
"Avery Hemmingway isn't real, and you have fifteen minutes before security changes shifts."
Xavier chuckled. "Avery's real to Mrs. Takeda. Very real. Especially after our third meeting when I—"
"Details I don't need." Mila's voice sharpened. "Just remember, this is supposed to be simple. Get the card, scan it, return it. No complications."
"When have I ever complicated things?"
"Last month. The ambassador's daughter."
"She complicated things. I merely adapted."