"Mr. Greeley is right. Matherton has far too much experience in treachery and conniving. Let us not be guilty of the same hubris he shows—it would be foolhardy to think we can beat him at his own game through our own wiles." She found her voice was surprisingly steady. Somehow the deep sapphirine glow of Rafael's gaze had calmed all her fears. "So, you are willing to trust Rafe to play the hero?" said Jack with a faint smile. "Yes. Wholeheartedly," replied Kyra. "Though I do hope you shall lend a hand." "I doubt he will need me to lift a finger." A twinkle lit in Jack's eye. "But of course I shall be watching his back." Harriet looked about to speak up, then seemed to hesitate for a fraction before going on. "You are right, Kyra. It would be foolish not to defer to those who have more practical experience in warfare. And besides, it is your battle to fight, so the final decision must rest with you." "Absolutely," agreed Theo. "Just tell us how we can help." Kyra gave her new friends a grateful smile.
