"I'm not really worried about anyone recognizing my voice," Kathy said with a shrug. "I mean, I highly that I'll be recognized in Baltimore. But I'm not going to turn down help."

It was hard, though. She still felt she ought to turn it down, if for no other reason than because she didn't want Barry to feel as if he had to give her things. On the other hand, he sincerely seemed to want to help, which meant that refusing might offend him.

In the end, necessity won over politeness. She couldn't afford to be coy when she really might run into guns.

"Thank you. I really am grateful the help. I'm trying not to be stupid about this, so... Anything you can offer to help keep me in one piece is much appreciated."