“A weak answer. In fact, you never say much about it when you come around.”
He could’ve mentioned how Effie had visited only once in the two months since he took charge. Trevor wisely resisted.
“If I told you about a typical daily agenda, you’d beg me not to go into detail. Yes, it’s an important job. I shake hands with all the major players. And I think I do reasonably good work.”
“But?”
“Most of the day involves sitting in meetings that make a man want to drink. It’s not glamorous. Best thing I did all week was open a Riyadhi restaurant in Haven. Quick. Fresh food. Nice people.”
She shaded her eyes in a familiar body tic. Effie didn’t buy his explanation.
“Why did you tense up when I asked about the job?”
“Did I?”
“Oh, Trev. We were together for eight years. C’mon now.”
She always knew how to break him down into a truth-teller.
“Look, it’s nothing, Eff. Just a hell of a lot of responsibility.”
“No doubt. For the record, I’m incredibly proud of you. I was as stunned as just about everyone when Haas nominated you to replace Murrill.”
“Why? Thought it’d be too much for me?”
She nodded. “Even people who respected you and everything you’ve given to the station had concerns. But what a difference two months can make. You’re probably not aware, but I hear your name invoked every day. And not just because I’m your wife.”
“I try to tune out gossip.”
Effie failed to contain her eye roll.
“You’re such a liar, Trev.”
“OK. What do people say?”
“That you listen and you care. They weren’t used to that under Murrill. I’m sure every day is a challenge, but you’re doing amazing work. Don’t doubt yourself.”
Trevor’s heart warmed. He needed to hear those words.
He wanted to tell her everything, but it wasn’t his place anymore. They shared new confidants these days.
Maybe ...
He cursed under his breath.
No. This isn’t the right time. It’s ...
Trevor decided on a strategy for bringing business to his daughter’s party without making it sound inappropriate.
“Here you are asking about me, Eff, and I haven’t inquired about your job in ages.”
“Nothing new on that front. Missions can be a little more touchy depending on the assignment.”
“I’m sure. Your job always had risk. Wherever there are disputes, people can be unpredictable. Speaking of, there must be lots of chatter about the elections. Especially in the diplomatic circles.”
She stifled a laugh.
“To put it mildly. You know, it’s always strange when the reps leave to campaign. You can never be sure who will return. This year feels more uncertain than ever.”
“In a bad way?”
Effie hesitated before she answered.
“Possibly. Many campaigns are uglier than usual. This is the first election where some of the opposition receive funding from Black Star. On planets like Catalan, there are three times more candidates. It’s a recipe for instability.”
Effie tensed. Trevor disliked the direction they headed.
“I haven’t followed any of the races, except for maybe a couple on Earth. What have you heard?”
“Like you, I don’t sit around and watch the planetary streams all day. The issues vary from planet to planet. But many candidates say they won’t accept the results if they lose. Complaints of a rigged system. I worry we’re at a tipping point.”
Trevor felt just enough melancholy setting in to pull back. Maybe she heard rumors connected to the housing mystery. Maybe not. Either way, he refused to use Effie for intel. Not here, not now.
“It’s happening light-years away, Eff. What do you say we put it aside and enjoy the party?” He looked over her shoulder. “Cake’s almost gone. Want a last slice?”
He led Effie from the dance floor to the bedraggled remains of what was once a meter-long white cake with blue icing.
“Not for me,” she said. “I’d rather settle in with a nice café.”
