Your Guise Is Slipping, Miss Pearl

Esther's loud voice made Amelia panic.

"Shush!"

Esther realized too late that they were in the village, where people might overhear their conversation.

"So, what's your plan?" Esther felt better knowing Finnegan was on her side, working as a spy with her.

"I can't share it right now. It complicates my job since you figured out I'm a police officer," Amelia explained, cautious even though she trusted Esther's innocence not to spoil her plans. Esther nodded, understanding, and dropped the subject.

After a while, Finnegan came in, puzzled by their knowing smiles.

"Mister Finnegan, she found out I'm an undercover cop."

Finnegan wasn't surprised. "She's always been smart. It's no surprise she guessed."

Esther was worried by his comment. "What do you mean? Do you know me?"

leave, then turned back to Esther.

for hints in her expression. However, she

before? If you tell me your name, maybe it'll ring a bell," Esther said, giving an awkward

know you

you tell me your name? Maybe I can recall who you are." Esther cracked an awkward smile. "It's too long ago. I really

you are."

a

Finnegan...

memories flooded

there was this boy everyone thought was so cool and smart, named Finnegan. He wasn't as sharply handsome then, still growing

didn't really talk much back in those days, so Esther had almost forgotten him.

you. I wouldn't have guessed

her a cold look. "And I didn't see you becoming

her chin proudly. "Well, why not? I've

Finnegan of the young Esther he remembered. He chuckled and asked, "How did you end

were someone else, it could have been