Segment Four: Reunion of Yin and Yang

“I assume you came in response to the ad?” he asked.

“Yes, I-”

“You understand this is a partnership.”

“Yes, but-”

“Are you prepared to do whatever is asked of you?” As if they had a mind of their own, his fingers rolled out a rhythm.

Her spoon clinked against her tea cup. “I don’t consider anything too menial if that’s what you’re asking.”

She met his purposeful gaze with one of her own.

He nodded and fisted his drumming fingers lest he appear too eager. It couldn’t be that easy. She seemed so amenable.

“The beginning will be the most demanding, most difficult.” He watched as her eyes hinted at uncertainty. “You’ll have to place complete confidence in me in order for this merger to work.”

“Merger?” She fidgeted with her cup, clasping and releasing the porcelain rim with slender fingers. “Is there another company involved?”

“No. Figure of speech. This partnership is a merger.”

A slight smile molded her lips. “Oh. Perhaps you could give me more information about the job.”

“Partnership.”

“Sorry.” Katherine lowered her gaze, pinched the bridge of her nose, exhaled, then tucked her hand under the table. “Yes, you did say that. I’m just a bit unclear.” She raised her chin. “The ad was very brief. You must admit that ‘Needed: a partner in the business of adventure and magic’ is a bit nebulous. I guess I assumed you’d want someone knowledgeable in the travel industry. I’ve traveled extensively, but have never run a business. Can you explain a bit about what you’d expect me to contribute? It might help me to understand if we’d suit.”

“Oh, we suit.” At her startled expression, he coughed. “In case you haven’t noticed, nobody else showed up.” She glanced over her shoulder at the closed door. Maybe he’d need to take another tack with her.

He leaned forward. “Do you believe in fate?”

She leaned back, her eyes full of doubt.

“I do,” he said. “Fate sent you to my door. Whatever you possess, I need. Of this, I am certain.”

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