[... That's certainly an expression on her face. He's quiet for a long moment, head slightly tilted, analyzing that look--and then, softly, he sighs, and nods.

He understand, he thinks. As far as he can, because really--]

I am not so foolish, nor so self-absorbed as to think I am the only one who wishes to end this game.

[It'd be ridiculous; he knows everyone is working hard to do just that. And he is glad that they are doing so subtly, with all of the caution they can muster.

But.]

I cannot sacrifice my duty for the sake of safety. To do so would be a betrayal to my own morals that I could not tolerate. [Even if it gets him killed.] I can ask only for your understanding, Madam Walken.