"My English is that of the Star League, though I speak serviceable Russian too." Which wasn't quite true, considering all the loanwords that had crept in or been introduced deliberately by Nicky K.

He returned her smile, but stronger. He'd heard only confused and disjointed rumors about what had happened with her. Better to hear from her, and she seemed to be doing a lot better than they'd suggested.

"I told you I would, quiaff?"