[Much better, yes, but then again, aren't most things? At least, if you shoot yourself with a loaded question it isn't as likely to be lethal. And, guaranteed, it won't stain a perfectly good suit, either.]

I have met a few of the people who were taken hostage, but I wouldn't consider myself close to any one of them. [He'd spoken to Abigail a handful of times over the network and had gotten the impression she didn't like him very much. Whatever her reasons, it hardly mattered. He could honestly say that, at this point, the feeling was mutual. As for the other person whom he knew had been involved...well, he hardly needed to be concerned for Annie Leonhart.] Actually, it would seem that the people closest to me were only indirectly involved in the incident. I suppose that is my good fortune, and theirs.

[Another sip of tea before he set his cup down and meets the other man's gaze.]

Though, in the case of Jayden, I am told I have you and Freddie Lounds to thank for that.