“No,” he said curtly. “The keyboard wasn’t a bribe to get her into bed. She seemed to need it. She’s just a kid, and she’s lost everything else. This was important to her. It wasn’t that much trouble for me, so why shouldn’t I have seen that she had it?”

“Good question.” She was studying his expression. “Do I detect a touch of softness? I liked that answer, though we both know she’s no ‘kid.’ You’re thinking about that file Kaskov gave you? She might not have the same experience as the women you’re accustomed to inviting for joyrides in this magic carpet you call a plane, but she’s learned to survive any situation. Not only that, but she hasn’t let it twist her or take away the joy she can feel. Though that’s because she had the music.”

He frowned. “What?”

She lifted one shoulder in a half shrug. “At least, that’s what I think. After all the rough, dirty things those bastards have put her through, she should be rock-hard by now, but it hasn’t happened.” She jerked her head toward the back of the plane where Lara was still playing. “Personally, I believe it’s because she immerses herself in her music whenever she gets the chance, and it softens and clears everything harsh and ugly away.” She smiled mockingly. “Weird, huh? But that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.” Her smile faded. “And I thank God for it every single day.”

“Maybe not so weird,” he said slowly. “I can see living with the kind of music she’s been playing today could be something of a catharsis. It was almost mesmerizing.” He made a face. “At any rate, I’m glad she had something to hold on to during those years.”

“Hmm, that sounded sincere.” She tilted her head. “So perhaps I’ll accept that you don’t intend to do any damage to her if you can help it. But that doesn’t mean I won’t keep an eye on you. Good intentions don’t mean a damn where sex is concerned.”

“That doesn’t surprise me considering where it’s coming from.” He smiled crookedly. “And I couldn’t agree with you more. By all means, watch me like a hawk. It will take a lot of pressure off me.”

“You mean that.” She paused before she added, “You might even be a good guy. Though I don’t remember the last time I met one. But I can’t afford to take chances with Lara. It would be very dangerous for her to learn to trust you and then have you turn out to be the usual son of a bitch.” She lifted her chin. “So you can bet I’ll be watching you for even one misstep.”