Alice noticed.
Then immediately changed the subject.
"I can help."
Kai blinked.
"You can?"
"Of course."
"How?"
Alice grinned.
---
"There used to be an older version of the Queen's residence before renovations."
Raj slowly lowered her head onto the table.
As if she could physically feel where this conversation was going.
Alice continued.
"There are old maintenance routes."
"Secret passages."
"Hidden hallways."
"Places most people don't know about."
Kai leaned forward.
"You know where they are?"
"Maybe."
Raj made a noise somewhere between a groan and a prayer.
Alice ignored her.
"If you follow me, I can get you directly to the Queen."
Andre finally looked up from his food.
His mouth was full.
"Really?"
"Really."
"Nice."
Kai wasn't entirely convinced.
But it was still better than standing outside the palace gates.
Eventually the food disappeared.
Mostly because Andre ate it.
The plates were practically spotless.
Alice stood up.
"Let's go."
Raj immediately stood as well.
"Payment."
Alice froze.
The room became quiet.
Kai watched.
Andre watched.
Several nearby customers watched.
Alice slowly turned around.
"About that."
Raj crossed her arms.
"No."
Alice leaned closer and whispered something.
Nobody else heard it.
Raj's expression changed instantly.
The anger disappeared.