It is already established that Ryker was working for a mysterious woman, whose name I have forgotten, who is active in drug trafficking, among other things, and was Ryker's boss. According to Damien, she and the leadership of her organization explicitly warned Ryker several times to keep his hands off the MC. Also, I don't think Rachael would have allied with her if she was that dirty. Another point that speaks against it: The player has already done a lot for his classmates and the nephew of his teacher before his encounter with Willabelle, which harmonizes very much with the goals and ideals of Hearts for Hope. Any manipulation therefore seems quite unnecessary to me.