[Markus arrives on time, giving notice to the state of their meeting place — an abandoned warehouse that’s surely seen better days — but making no remark on it for now. There’s appreciation in Hafid still being willing to do this, after all that had exploded over the network; and especially knowing of his association with Connor, though perhaps not how deeply that association actually ran.

So maybe the question isn’t all that unexpected.]

Connor knows better than that. Who I associate with is my own choice to make, and I know he can respect that.

[And outside of extenuating circumstances, this is mostly true.

Dressed plainly, focused on ease of movement rather than looking sharp, Markus clasps his hands patiently behind his back.]

Unless you think my association with him is going to be an issue for you, personally?

[The question reflected back, giving Hafid an out if he was starting to have second thoughts.]