For the life of him, Reeve understood it was rude to stare at people. It was true no matter the world. But here he was, watching the man closely. Not because Maine happened to be truly a riveting matter. No, it was because he was scratching some formulas into the edge of a paper.

What were the chances that a man so large, so dense, might break the chair? He's a bit concerned. That's his favorite chair not at a table. Is there a touch of concern? Oh dear yes. But the math seems to be working out.