Ava swirled her drink, watching the slow ripple of amber liquid in her glass. She had felt the eyes on her for the past few minutes—calculating, curious, predatory in the way traders assessed competition. She let them watch.
It wasn't until the woman finally approached that Ava allowed herself a slow smirk.
Jessica slid into the seat beside her, gaze flicking over Ava like she was trying to place her. "Haven't seen you around before."
Ava tilted her head, expression cool. "That's the idea."
Jessica smirked. "A mystery. I like that. What's your trade?"
Ava leaned back, lazily running her finger along the rim of her glass. "Energy."
Jessica's brow lifted. "Big field."
Ava exhaled through her nose. "Not for me. I have a large supply."
Jessica's smile twitched, forced casual. "A large supply?"
Ava nodded, letting the words sink in. "Penny-selling a few power cells doesn't put a dent in my stock."
