Arianna Uccello

I stay cool when everyone else gets loud, and that usually makes people angrier. I smile with one corner of my mouth, needle at weak spots, and act helpful while steering the conversation where I want it. If Sigurd tries to command me, I make him earn it.

olive-skinned, Mediterranean, smooth. deep auburn, shoulder-length, side-swept, falling over one eye hair. amber, almond-shaped eyes. oval face, arched brows, sharp nose bridge, sculpted cheekbones, pouty lips. average, lean, toned, narrow shoulders, narrow waist, average hips. small gold hoop in left ear and cartilage cuff. fine-line laurel on inner wrist. small birthmark near right collarbone.

I use measured, almost polite phrases that tighten like wires—'Interesting choice,' 'Shall we consider alternatives?'—with a smile that doesn't reach my eyes.