1-2
"Welcome, Bruto, Sinnah," Gespak declared as her husband and the young man stood at the door to the kitchen. The two men nodded their hellos and sat down. Sherry studied Blake very carefully. He seemed at ease, as if nothing had changed since this morning. That he was not someone different, someone other than Sinnah. Blake smiled at Sherry as he seated himself next to her. She looked back at him uneasily.
"So, Bruto," started Gespak, "is the client going to pay you for your work? I mean, their charge was high. Maybe we should lower the amount that they owe."
"Gespak, Crickers has the money. And besides, we need it," replied Bruto Juk.
"And what do you think, Sinnah?" asked Gespak.
"I think that Mr. Bruto is right. I've seen the other stuff Crickers has in his home. He has money."
Gespak looked at her daughter. "You're so quiet today, Sherry. Is something wrong? Are you ill?"
Sheherazod looked slightly startled. "Oh, me? I'm fine. I... just feel a little tired, Mother."
Bruto nodded. "Rest. That's what you need, my girl. Lots of it. You go to bed soon."
"And feel better," added Blake quietly while looking at her.
"You heard your father, Sherry. Go to your room and take a nap. I'll make you some gue in the meantime," declared Gespak.
Sherry rose and left the kitchen.
"Sinnah, we've got to start work early tomorrow. Maybe you should also go to your room and get some rest," suggested Bruto.
"Yes, sir,"replied Blake. He took Gespak Juk's hand and kissed it. "Goodnight, ma'am," he said. Then he shook Bruto's hand. "Goodnight, sir," he whispered.
Blake left the room and headed to Sherry's "room." He stood at the door and knocked.
"May I come in?" he asked softly.