“Anyone ever tell you that you look like an orange in that jumpsuit? Auntie Lenore? More like Auntie Clementine.”

“You look like the vamp who bled the cat.”

“You aren't kidding. But you know, it's likely going to be the only time I'll ever be that skinny and have a fur coat.”

“I feel like run-over crap," I complained. "You look like run-over crap," Jenks said. "Drink your tea.”

“Quen's gaze went to Ivy and Jenks.Peeved, I crossed my legs and shook my head. "We're a team. I'm not asking them to leave so you can tell me of whatever piss-poor problem you've landed yourself in."The older elf's brow wrinkled. He took an angry breath."Look," I said, my finger jabbing out to point at him. "I don't like you. Jenks doesn't like you. And Ivy wants to eat you. Start talking.”

“Come work for me, and I’ll tell you.”My eyes went to his. “You are a thief, a cheat, a murderer, and a not-nice man,” I said calmly. “I don’t like you.”He shrugged, the motion making him look utterly harmless. “I’m not a thief,” he said. “And I don’t mind manipulating you into working for me when I need it.” He smiled, showing me perfect teeth. “I enjoy it, actually.”

“I didn’t want to go to jail. Unlike Takata, I looked awful in orange.”