Niles opened his mouth to speak, but Gabe cut him off with the pre-emptive words. Tension eased out of his shoulders and he nodded. Gabe knew him son well. But then he shook his head, concern crossing his features.

"One night," he insisted, distracted. He focused on his boots yanking at the laces. "I just need to do this one thing. Once she has the EGO, we just have to sit back...it's all in Yewll's hands from there. I need to get it done tomorrow."

He was just making a mess of the laces. It was usually so easy. What was wrong with his fingers? "But tonight..." He picked up the glass and took another sip, flicking a sheepish glance toward Gabe.