The arms business stays," she said plainly. "Everything we had logistics, procurement, secured shipments ,it stays, but bigger. Better. Cleaner. We merge the business, the private side with the legal side. We make the underworld accountable where it counts and anonymous where it must be."
Valerie barked a short laugh. "When did I sign up for a merger, El? I don't remember filling out any forms."
Elena tipped her head, eyes bright with mischief. "Now, Nana." Valerie's mask cracked; she let out a sound that was half scold, half laugh.
"Okay, now you're being adorable," Valerie said, but she didn't push; she'd used a thousand masks herself. "Carry on."
Elena let the tenderness evaporate.
