Altair stood as Alecta approached the table and favored her with a warm smile. "Good afternoon, darling. I haven't been waiting long at all." He leaned forward and kissed her on the cheek before reclaiming his seat. "I've ordered us some wine—Ordalian vintage, not too sweet. Coffee seemed a bit tame for catching up with an old friend. Of course, we can always switch to coffee later."
He closed his menu, leaned forward, and steepled his fingers on the tabletop. "I do hope this afternoon finds you well."