Michael’s father leaned closer, his voice low but firm, careful not to let it carry beyond the shadowed corner where they had paused. The lines in his face, usually calm and diplomatic in public, were tighter tonight, the stress of their double life pressing down on him. “Michael, this isn’t just about manners or showing off Ireland’s support. This is serious work. Her family is high-profile, and the Germans will be watching everyone we host. Every word, every gesture—everything matters. You understand?”

Michael nodded, a knot of nerves forming in his stomach. He had been trained to blend in, to follow orders, but this was different. This was personal. The thought of having to guide someone—someone his own age—through a world that was already confusing and dangerous, made his pulse quicken.

His mother adjusted the sleeve of her dress with a quiet elegance, as if every move was measured for maximum effect. Her eyes, calm but intense, met Michael’s. “We’ll rely on you to show her what she needs to know. Not just the language, but the subtleties—how to act, what to say, who to trust. We’ll be busy with our own work, and we can’t always protect her. You need to be her guide.” She gave a small, almost imperceptible nod, her lips tight, betraying the weight of the responsibility she was placing on him.

Michael swallowed, trying to steady his thoughts. “I… I can do that,” he said, though his voice carried a flicker of uncertainty. His father reached out, resting a hand on his shoulder. The gesture was brief but grounding, a reminder that he wasn’t entirely alone in this.

“Good,” his father said. “We’re counting on you. This isn’t just about appearances. This is about keeping her safe, keeping our cover intact, and making sure Ireland’s interests are protected. You slip up, even a little, and it could ruin everything.”

Michael’s mother leaned slightly closer, lowering her voice so only he could hear. “And remember, Michael… charm is a tool, but so is caution. Be careful who you trust, even among the people who seem harmless. You’ll need to balance both if you’re going to do this right.”

Michael nodded again, feeling the weight of their expectations settle heavily on his shoulders. Outside the corner where they stood, the party carried on, laughter and music spilling through the grand hall. But in this quiet, shadowed space, Michael felt the reality of their lives press in—the game they all played, the constant dance of deception, and now, his first real test.