Whether she wanted it to or not, Lester was sure that this would eventually involve the Ministry — and a scandal. But he could bring her home first. He owed her that much, owed the Bixbys that much. He wished that he could explain this to one of their friends, but they did not have the time, and what if they didn't believe him? Watching the transformation in front of him, he could hardly believe it himself.

What if the Sinclairs didn't let her go?

Lester swallowed, and nodded. "I'll meet you by the carriages," he said, "In ten minutes."

No one would mind if he left without saying anything.