Patrons, Praise, and Prying Eyes

The morning sun filtered through the car windows as Elara navigated through the busy streets. After last night's call from Mr. Newman, she had decided to fulfill her obligation to pick up Zachary Newman today, though not without some internal conflict.

"Thank you for picking me up, Mrs. Thorne," Zachary said as he settled into the passenger seat. His demeanor was formal as always, briefcase balanced perfectly on his lap.

"You're welcome, Mr. Newman. And please, call me Elara." She smiled politely, keeping her eyes on the road.

"Very well... Elara." The name sounded stiff coming from his lips, as if unused to such informality.

Zachary checked his watch. "We have a reservation at Portofino's in twenty minutes. Theodore Robinson and Harold Jennings are already waiting."

Elara's grip tightened on the steering wheel. Theodore Robinson was the Secretary of Defense, and Harold Jennings chaired the Senate Technology Committee. These weren't casual lunch companions.