She did all of this, Arthur, believing me to be exactly the powerless, unimportant stranger your front desk took me for.

She had nothing to gain from kindness, and she gave it anyway.

That is the entire difference between her and them, and it is the only difference that has ever mattered in this business.” Arthur nodded briskly, taking out a small notebook, and Clara turned back to the two men at the desk.

Chapter 18 — Effective Immediately

“Mr.

Thorne.

Mr.

Vance.” Clara’s voice was deadpan, and absolute, and left no room anywhere in it.