Emilia was pleased that he didn't pry; sometimes people did, and she never knew what to say when that happened, because she was a naturally quiet person and was not particularly well-suited for anything but avoidance in uncomfortable situations.

And she ought to recommend Magical Accidents & Catastrophes, because this was not her area of expertise — but he was friendly, and Emilia's children were older so she was not nearly as needed at home, and she had an Eavan-induced attachment to the zoo.

"I'm not an expert," Emilia said, "But I would be happy to take a look."