Deceptive Ties

"Oscar, does anyone else know about this report? Does Declan know?"

The urgency in her voice was palpable; she couldn't afford to let Declan discover that the fool was still alive. Handling a fool and Clara simultaneously would be an overwhelming challenge.

"No one knows; I've managed to keep it under wraps, and Declan hasn't seen it yet," came the reassurance from Oscar.

"Oscar, please help me; w