Page 75 of Tamiko and the Two Janitors
“Gentle countryside clans with a unique perspective becausethey’ve always lived close to humans. Mostly rodents and small birds, but manyclans that watch over animals domesticated by humanity count themselves amongthe cozies.” Dr. Bellamy was watching her closely. “Their customs arecharming.”
Tami sat back in her chair. “This isamazing. And sogenerous. I just hope we can present these programs responsibly, so the kidsunderstand that the Amaranthine aren’t here for our entertainment. Maybe if webalance off these programs with those by human and reaver guests? Or we could focuson groups who are already integrated, showing how our races can work togetherin fun and interesting ways.”
Dr. Bellamy smiled. “A far-sighted view. I can only approve.”
“If my perspectives have changed, it’s thanks to you.”
“Might I remind you, my dear lady, thatyouapproachedmewith the plan that’s led to our flagship alliance.” He satforward, then stood, beginning to pace. “Your vision has changed the future. Orat leastmyfuture. May I share a matter of some delicacy with you?”
Tami left off putting away her notes, giving Dr. Bellamy herfull attention. She archly repeated her earlier question. “We’re friends,aren’t we?”
To her surprise, Dr. Bellamy came around to sit in the chairbeside hers. Turned toward her, he said, “I have always known I would need todeclare myself eventually, but the current confluence of events … well! Itwould seem the time is now.”
She adored this man. No one else in her acquaintance sharedhis enthusiasm for life or his robust vocabulary. But his wording made her alittle uneasy—declare himself. Was he about to ask her out? That wouldbe awkward.
“Spokesperson Twineshaft must be informed. This may affecthis plans, as well.”
Okay, she was out of danger. Tami was glad to havemisinterpreted his turn of phrase. “Do you mean when we introduce the newfaculty and staff?”
“No, it would be best if I came outbeforeDichotomyDay.” He cocked his head to one side. “There. Have I shocked you?”
Tami hardly knew what to say. “Why would SpokespersonTwineshaft be concerned about your orientation?”
Cyril blinked.
Tami blinked.
“I have been entirely too circumspect. A longstanding habit,I fear. While I have no wish to embarrass you with regards to your assumptions,I am—as you would say—a happily married man, boasting many daughters and sons,many of whom share my foibles and fashion sense.”
“I’m sosorry…!”
He waved her apology aside. “I am what I am, and I am as authenticas I can be under the circumstances. However, my clan affiliation will surelycause a stir.”
Tami blinked.
Cyril smiled.
“There,” he said gently. “Nowwe understand oneanother.”
“You’re Amaranthine?”
“Yes.”
This raised several questions. Perhaps her priorities weremixed up, but the first question out of Tami’s mouth was, “Isthatwhy wewere selected for the Twineshaft initiative?”
“No. Hisoka and I are not directly acquainted, and even ifhe knowsofme, it would be by my true name.” Dr. Bellamy shook hishead. “Our proposal’s selection was based entirely on its merits.”
She was relieved. And then she allowed herself to beshocked. “You’reAmaranthine.”
He offered his palms.
Covering them, Tami whispered, “May I know your true name?”
“Cyril Sunfletch, from one of the pheasant clans.” Hequietly asked, “Can you bear up under further revelations?”
Tami couldn’t help laughing. “If they’re as world-tilting asthis one, bring them on.”
He raised a hand, which was clearly a signal, for the doorimmediately opened. Lou strolled in, bearing a loaded tray. Then came a tallman with red hair, freckles, and a stack of bakery boxes.
