There was no force on this earth—not even the Imperius Curse itself—that would have prompted Fitz to invite Harriet Prewett into his home at any hour. Did he love his mother ardently? Of course! Did he love her best when she was in another city? Most definitely. Still, the wizard knew that to call his mother on her lie would lead to an argument, and that would only prolong this misery.

"It must have...slipped my mind," he allowed. "If you'll allow me some time, I should be happy to meet you in the dining room."

Whatever his mother was here for, Fitzroy suspected he would rather not be naked for it.