Mental note

“It’s just a one-off. I’ve been working a lot; lately, that’s all.”

“I’d like to believe that.”

“That is exactly what is wrong with me. You don’t need to be so concerned.”

I can see she’s not going to budge on this. She’s far too stubborn. Well, I can be persistent as well. I look at the folder that is on the floor. Somehow, whatever was in there hasn’t fallen out.

“Are you heading up to your apartment?”

“Yes. I’m locking up right now.”

“I’ll help you. And I’m not taking no for an answer,” I add sharply as Lucia protests. “You just fainted. The last thing I want to do is let you walk up a steep flight of stairs on your own.”

Lucia’s mouth opens and closes. Then she huffs and looks away.

“Okay, fine. If you can lock it up for me, that would be great. I’ll do the alarm.”

“Sure.”

I pick up her keys from the floor and turn off the lights. Lucia slowly gets to her feet and hovers by the alarm system until I join her. She sets the alarm, which bleeps in response, and we step out into the st