For a moment it appeared that nobody had noticed her, for a moment it seemed like everything was going to go exactly to plan, for a moment it appeared Christmas morning was exactly as it should be. Then Mr. Nott spoke. It wasn’t very loud, but it traveled down the table. Warmth flushed Sybille’s pale cheeks and for a moment no one spoke as the awkward silence descended on the table.

Then mother spoke, her sharp tone jarring against Sybille’s memories of her mother, against how her mother had been since she returned. Cheeks down a deep red Sybille was mortified. Part of her wanted to slink away and do what was asked and part of her wanted to yell at her mother. Looking around at all the faces turned her way Sybille knew it wasn’t the time or place. Everyone seemed to be on edge with Mr. Nott and the new Mrs. Lukeson around. Sybille wasn’t sure why they were worried about Lucille, she seemed sweet enough, but Mr. Nott - he seemed as friendly as a hungry werewolf.

“Yes mother.” Sybille slipped sullenly out of her chair and left the dining room to find the housekeeper. Mrs. Yates always knew how to fix a mess like this and Sybille wasn’t going to add to her injury by looking for nanny to help the situation.