Victor was the next to speak. “Mei…” They looked up. “My house is lonely. I could care for him. Keep him safe.”
Linus lowered himself to the armchair, and stared blankly into the fire. “He could get a proper education here. Learn things like the other children. Maybe make some friends.”
Mei sniffed harshly. Standing quickly, she helped herself to Victor’s brandy. Victor didn’t stop her. “It’s not an easy decision,” Victor acknowledged. “I know how much you love him. All of you…But your world is no place for a child.”
Gently, Mei set her empty glass on the table. Her dark eyes dared not stray from the blank space on the wall. Slowly, she nodded. The decision was made. “Who’s gonna tell him?” No answer. Mei rounded to the room. “I’ll do it.”
“Wait.” Violet stood, blocking her path to the
