The steam from the coffee cup in Maria's hands frozen in a twisted ribbon above her cup.
Even the cleaning bot below my feet has stopped moving.
"I always find this part a bit awkward," came Karton's voice from my right.
"Conversations are easier when you don't have people listening in."
I swallowed dryly.
"So, we're alone?"
"As alone as two beings can be when standing outside the rules of time."
He took a bite of his sandwich.
And yes, somehow the teenage god who paused time was still chewing on it, and gestured toward mine as well.
"Eat, if you'd like, they are delicious. It'll stay warm as long as we stay in this moment."
I stared at the food for a beat… then took a bite.
"...Damn. That's good."
Karton grinned.
"Told you."
As I enjoyed my sandwich, I saw the expression on Karton's face shift.
"Now then, Zane Skylark… let's talk about why I invited you."
I almost choked on the sandwitch.
