He watched the couple get out, and hurry up, to disappear at the entrance.

Then Lane changed his position, and stood directly at the head of the stairway under the light.

He had no interest in Captain Vane Thesel.

He just wanted to get a close look at the girl.
Presently he heard steps, heavy and light, and a man's deep voice, a girl's low thrill of laughter.

They turned the curve in the stairway and did not see Lane until they had mounted to the top.
With cool steady gaze Lane studied the girl.