Running a hand along his bristled cheek, he regretted that he hadn't shaved before leaving. In the excitement and rush to pack after speaking with Alex, he'd forgotten about it. Only after boarding did he realize that he'd also forgotten his phone charger. No matter. Both were easy to correct. Though the untidiness irked him, if Alex could forgive a 2 a.m. call, then surely he could forgive a little stubble. Passengers erupted from their seats as the train stopped, instantly flooding the aisle. Gerhard remained seated, waiting for them to pass as he scanned the platform for Alex or his Russian assistant, or bodyguard, or whatever he was. The five-hour ride from Stuttgart had afforded him ample time to ponder Alex's intentions. What exactly was Gerhard to do for Umatri? What services was he expected to provide over the next few days? Surely the old man required some compensation for such an artifact. Whatever it was, Gerhard would complete his payment and in a week's time return home, the keris his.
