Tobias gave a curt nod in return. "I'll be in the next room," he reassured Mrs. Carpenter, and he left.

Alice relaxed a little, though she remained curled up. She didn't want to treat the child poorly. But it was better off without her. Why did they have to disturb her like this? Why couldn't they let her wither in peace?

But Tobias would come back if she didn't comply. She pulled closer to the wall, but lifted her head and carefully turned it to look at the dark haired infant in Iris' arms. She burst into tears all over.