It was impossible to ignore the problem anymore. With Ray's condition as it was, there was no way to hide it. They could delay the old master's visit this time, maybe even one more time after that, but what then? The truth was bound to come out eventually, and worse, they might try to meet Ray without her even knowing.
She needed a plan, something that would stop them from coming back. But it wasn't just about keeping them away. She had to ensure Ray stayed close to her, where she could keep him safe. The thought twisted and turned in her mind until an idea, strange and unsettling, began to form.
What if Ray "died"? If everyone believed he was gone, the old master and anyone else wouldn't have a reason to come looking for him. It would end their visits for good. But it wasn't just about the deception. She could use their suspicion to her advantage, turning their curiosity into a trap of her own making.
