Sivain inwardly winced again. He hadn't even thought of that, how strange it would be just to bring a human accountant with them. “Yes, we're... very close. He's a knowledgeable, um.” Sivain wanted to say 'man', but that would be a lie. “He's worked with us for a long time,” he finished lamely. If Charlie noticed the hiccup, she didn't mention it.
She did look him up and down once more, however, which made Sivain feel self-conscious all over again. The feeling ought to have been unwarranted. He hadn't felt so much as if he was on display since his presentation to the gods at his ceremony of godhood, and back then it had been dulled by the ache of--- No, I will not think of it. And no, it wasn't right either. The first time that he had met--- I will not think of that either. But that was not the same as this, and the discomfort stemmed more from the idea that Charlie's dislike might cause trouble for Suvi and Elliot's friendship. “Is something the matter?” he asked.
“No, I'm just thinking... Well, you guys must be loaded if you need an accountant,” Charlie said, at which point the gears finally clicked into place.
[35: Bakery]