They insist it will only take full effect with regular doses. I asked about downing the whole bottle in one go, but the idea was strongly discouraged. [ He shrugs. Some people are far too cautious.

Meanwhile, he can't shake the tickling familiarity about this woman. Her speech patterns specifically ... but he's never spoken to her before, has he? Odd. ]

Oh, yes! We hail from the same place. You could say we're associates—our work often overlaps. [ His gaze lands on van Zieks—the man's imposing stature is easy to spot in the cozy crowd. ] You strike me as the type of person he would get on quite well with. You have a very rigid ... very martial ... way ... about you ...

[ Oh. Oh no. There it is. His brows raise as the pieces fall into place. Including a promised meeting he'd completely forgotten about. ]

One might even call you "dapper," Ms. Beatrix.