Michael stopped. Turned. His eyes blazed with something I couldn't name.

"My wife," he said slowly, deliberately, "wanted children more than anything. That's all I'll say on the matter."

He strode away, ignoring further questions.

I sat frozen, phone clutched to my ear. "Did you hear that?" I whispered to Sam.

"He defended you," she said, sounding as shocked as I felt.

"Why would he do that? After everything..."

"I don't know." Sam paused. "But be careful, Aria. This could be part of their strategy too."

I checked my watch. Three hours until I met Marcus. Three hours to decide if I was walking into salvation or a trap.

My...