Later that night;
A soft knock at the door pulled Azzy from his light sleep. He sat up instantly, eyes sharp. The knock came again, hesitant but persistent. He opened the door, only to blink in surprise.
Leiza stood there in the dim hallway, clad in oversized bear pajamas, her arms wrapped around herself. Her hair was slightly disheveled, and her lips pressed into a small, uncertain line.
"What are you doing here?" Azzy asked, keeping his voice low.
Leiza shifted on her feet. "My uncle's plane got delayed because of the storm in Oakland. My maid's on leave because of my trip, and I don't trust those guards." She exhaled, glancing away for a second before meeting his gaze again. "Can I stay here?"
Azzy raised an eyebrow. "Here?"
"I'll sleep on the couch," she hurried to add, holding up both hands like a peace offering. "It's just for four hours. We'll be leaving before dawn anyway."
