Ryan's P. O. V

“Don't look at me”. Asford said, zipping his lips shut as Samantha glared at him, “I didn't say anything".

Samantha turned to me. “How did you find out?”

I shrugged. “You didn't actually think anything could come from the Federation without going through me first, did you?”

She pressed her together and leaned back.

“Was it him?” I asked again, “Was it Adrian Devonsol who put you up to this?"

Samantha shook her head slowly. “He and I have nothing to do with each other anymore".

“But once upon a time, you did”. I said, “Or am I wrong?"

Samantha stood halfway, then sat back down,...