A quick glance around confirms that there's no one remotely close, so Miles lets his expression soften into teasing fondness. "Anything for my great-aunt," he says with a grin. "Perhaps we could disguise you and take you along sometime. Byerly could help."

No, he knows she won't be allowed down. And for damn good reason. But - he can at least give her a little hope, right? That's not too much to ask?

He needs the cheer himself, especially when she goes on to the topic he was dreading. The light drains back out of his face, leaving him worried but ... no, not surprised. Once Sonia had been captured, there was only one outcome, after all. "I had thought they might," he says, his tone gentle. "There was likely no avoiding it."