Nina had been listening to Val talk about dinner and what he was gonna serve for dinner and for a moment, Nina relaxed. This was like home, she was safe here and could move more freely. Her eyes even softened for a moment as she remembered how to make each recipe as her former mentor had taught her. Her relaxed stance came crashing down around her when Val asked about the measurements. [i]He knows. He needs to be silenced. He knows.[/i] Her first thoughts were to kill him there and then, strangle him with the jacket sleeve or stab him with the small knife she kept on her. [i]No, he doesn't know for sure... but... as long as the boys don't know I'll be safe. They're dangerous, and they're impulsive. I can't let what happened before happen again. If Val's on my side he can keep them in order.[/i]

"... yes. In body I am female, but I would prefer to dress and be addressed as male. Please do not let the boys find out. While I did not set out to deceive them... I fear that they might be more of a danger if you don't know. But, please." Nina needed a moment to stop her voice from trembling. "Please don't stop me from working here. I loved being a butler back home... but now I can't ever go back. Please don't tell anyone."