She would not be surprised to learn Alexander had sent Lancelot to outposts with just such an outcome in mind. Or perhaps not. That would require planning.

"You should do something about him, my friend, or it will be you next." Katya transfers the newly whipped cream to the chilled bowl, covers it and washes out blender. A quick search finds paring knife and she sets to work hulling strawberries.

"David learned of her return nearly as soon as I did." Let him wonder whether she had called him or whether David's much vaunted spies had already had news. "And we have a Two regretting he took word first to Julien instead of me."

She turns around and pops a sweet, red strawberry on her tongue. "Ah, that is good. I have had enough of putting out fires. And you? I am surprised to find you here instead of elsewhere."

With his little Sweet Heart, perhaps.