The way he spoke about his adventures, about traversing the wilderness — it was attractive. Sera looked down at her champagne glass briefly so that she could keep her expression interested, but not too interested. Desire was a newly-awakened emotion, since coming out from under the curse. It had fits and starts. She was not sure how to deal with it.

She looked back up at Mr. Collins, looking far more normal than she felt. "Harriet is only a third year," Sera said, "But if she's anything like she is now when she's that age — I think she shall be able to handle it. The real question is if I will."