Operation: Future.

"Penny."

Penny stopped and looked back, tilting her head curiously. Atlas stood in the mezzanine while looking in her direction. 

"What is it?" she asked when he didn't say anything even after their eyes met. 

"Thanks."

Her brows knitted. "For?"

"The book recommendation," was his answer, assuming Penny would already figure it out. "It might be long overdue, but thanks."

"Ah." She smiled. "No biggie."

And Penny quickly turned her back on him and went to her bedroom.

"..." Atlas stared at her retreating figure and frowned. "Did I thank her a little too late?"

Another deep exhale slipped past his lips, snapping his eyes up to her figure. "She's being indifferent again."

Penny was like hot and cold: some days she was appreciative, but most of the time, she was indifferent. She was especially nonchalant when taking credits, making one wonder if she was just not interested in the person or if she simply didn't care.