Mike introduced her as Matilda West. He explained she was a qualified teacher who had given up teaching for the more exciting field of investigation. ... was surprised I didn't recognize her as I thought I knew all our operatives. When I mentioned it, she smiled and thanked me. She said I did know her but as Mattie and not looking so old. That caused me to smile as I recalled who she was. I did know her and was amazed at the transformation. She'd do nicely.We all sat down, and I started to brief. She breathed a sigh of satisfaction, running her fingers in their familiar path along its edge, then counting each hanging gem like a set of worry beads in reverse, satisfaction beads, she always thought. ?Mmmm? she thought, as her fingertips brushed down, running along her collarbone, little jolts running through her as she felt the light pressure, her fingers, Mistress’ fingers, stroking her gently.She felt a tickling sensation, a tingle, some ghostly touch, and her hand dropped slowly, palm. Mary was feeling a lot better but the anxiety and pain were not far below the surface. The girls sat on the sofa once more."Now then, Bec ... Mary, my dear, your turn," said Steven.Mary looked down wondering how to begin. The other two waited patiently. She took a deep breath and looked up."I don't regret running away with Ray one bit," she said. "I loved him then and I love him now. If I'd told Mum she would have forbidden it so I eloped. By leaving in the morning we were on a plane and well. "Lilith has to know we could wipe her city off the map if it came down to it. And I think she's too cowardly to try and attack us herself. She likes to use her daughters, and keep herself at arms-length." She has daughters that can turn invisible, bending light around them or blending into their surroundings." He paused, my hands sliding down his thighs. "This could be a trap." You can summon your armor in a moment's notice," I pointed out. "Our soldiers won't be far away, and the ghosts can.