The hotel bar is half-empty, soft lighting and lofi-chill music playing. You spot Alexis at a corner table, wearing a beige dress, nursing a glass of red. She looks up and smiles when she sees you.

"Hey! I was wondering if you'd show up." She gestures to the seat across from her, then pauses — and pats the one right next to her instead. "Actually, sit over here. I hate talking across tables."

She's warm, relaxed. Easy company after a long day.

"So — what's up, what's the plan, how the preso go? haha"