Cicel makes a horribly undignified noise in response to the ringing. It’s so unlike him, Alatasir almost laughs.

“The stupid Hammonds,” he complains, waving a hand at the persistent shrill ring of the phone. “They couldn’t be bothered to show up tonight, but they still want their money this instant.”

Alastair furrows his brow. He knows all of their clients and partners, but he doesn’t remember anyone with the last name Hammond.

“Here, ...