"I'm fine," I said, trying to reassure Mark, but my voice probably wavered. "I just need your help with something."
Worry laced his eyes, a sight that always made me feel a pang of guilt. Mark was such a steadfast friend, always ready to jump in and help, no matter what. "I'll help you with anything, Amrey. Just ask."
"For real?" I needed to be sure. This plan was… well, it was out there.
"Yes, for real," he responded, his gaze steady and supportive.
I took a deep breath and laid it all out. "Okay, so, I have this idea, and it might sound crazy, but I think we need to lock Jariel and Captain Cobham in one room."
I watched his reaction carefully, bracing myself for disbelief or laughter, but Mark just raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Lock them in a room? Why?"
"Because," I explained, my
