Herbert doubted it—was it legitimate doubt, or merely vain hope that Freddie would be able to talk their son out of risking his life? Regardless, the ghost knew he had lost this dispute, and had to console himself with the knowledge that, if nothing else, he had raised a confident lad.

He’d rather have raised a “not going to die” lad, but one couldn’t have everything.

Not trusting himself to say any more, Herbert gave Somersby a nod of acknowledgement before poofing as ghosts did, choosing to come to terms with this new development away from prying eyes.