Seraphina's jaw clenched for a moment, then she exhaled sharply, composing herself with a practised grace. "Indeed," she conceded, forcing a smile. "Apologies for the digression. Now, to the matter at hand," she continued, her voice regaining its business-like tone. "So, how much?"
A furrowed brow creased David's face. "how much?" he echoed, confusion clouding his eyes. "What in the nine hells do you mean by how much?"
A tinkling laugh escaped Seraphina, light and devoid of genuine amusement. "Don't be silly," she countered, her smile widening to reveal a hint of shark in its sweetness. Seraphina's smile faltered for a brief moment, then blossomed again, this time with a hint of flirtation. "Forgive me," she purred, her voice dripping with honeyed tones. "Perhaps I misspoke. How much Terran-gold would it take to... entice you away from your current employer?"
