Nesah gave Douglas the politest smile she could fake when he addressed her. She still did not know if she liked the artist. He was interesting enough to amuse her and keep her from complete boredom when she spoke with him. But she really disliked him here.

And then something entirely unexpected happened. He did not make a move on the poor injured thing, but seemed to be leaving. She was delighted. Instantly, she moved away from where she had been standing to watch the spectacle, circled the room a moment like a bird of prey, and then descended upon the girl like a vulture descends on easy prey left injured by another predator.

"Are you sure your neck is alright, dear?" she said with a kindness that people who knew her would not have thought possible, when she appeared beside Philippa. "I insist you let me take you to the doctor. I'll pay for it. I would like you to know not all ladies are wild beasts." She looked down at the injury.

Such a pretty neck.