The photograph spread faster than any emergency bulletin Adrian had ever issued.
By breakfast, three separate people had already congratulated him on his "successful evening," whatever that meant. By midmorning, one of the nurses at the hospital asked whether she should expect more "Commander sightings" in the market district. By noon, someone had drawn a small heart beside his name on the mess hall's daily assignment board, and nobody admitted responsibility despite the entire kitchen staff looking suspiciously pleased with themselves.
Adrian discovered the heart while reaching for coffee.
He stared at it for several seconds.
Ryan stood beside him holding a tray of food and looked entirely too innocent.
"Interesting artwork," Ryan said.
Adrian did not look away from the board. "Did you do this?"
"No."
"You answered too fast."
"I'm an efficient man."
Adrian slowly turned toward him. "Ryan."
