“She’s division chief for Advanced Planning in the Outer System. She works for the government. Like me.”

“Doing what?”

“The same as the last time you asked me. I build predictive models for the whole solar system — Inner and Outer.” Alex glanced at the big display, where the simulation was still rolling along. Estimated shipping tonnages for 2101 had exceeded fixed-point range and were being reported as floatingpoint, with ridiculously large exponents. “Not very good models, I’m afraid.”

“If that’s what interests you, you could do it just as well by yourself without reporting to anybody. We’re not exactly paupers.”

“I know.”

“And you wouldn’t have to work in a place like that.” The single word covered all of Alex’s spartan office, where the display volume left space for only a single chair and a small desk. The walls were neutral pale yellow, with no pictures or decorations.

“I know. Let me think about it. Maybe we can discuss this after the family meeting.” Alex knew he was committing to something else he didn’t want to do, but it was the easiest way to avoid an argument he couldn’t win.

“That’s why I called, Alex, to make sure you will be there. And don’t forget about the other thing. I can make arrangements whenever you are ready.”

“I won’t forget.” Alex studied his mother’s image, seeking the invisible. “I’ve been considering it.”

“Good. We’ll talk about that, too. Tomorrow, then. At four.”

“Yes, Mother.”

Lena Ligon nodded. “Try not to be late, as you usually are.” To Alex’s relief she vanished from the display. He glanced at the main simulation, where half the variables now showed overflow. Gibberish. He touched the pad to terminate the run, at the same time as he heard the door behind him slide open.

It was Kate, he knew without looking. He could smell her perfume, which always made him think of oranges and lemons.