"Okay," she said softly, but wondered how she was going to do going about getting Lore. Spoons? Whatever they were called. She'd have to leave her comfort zone eventually.

At least Mother wasn't here to nip all social interactions in the bud. And she wouldn't have to pass by that creepy wall of paintings of herself to get to her own private spot. She could have a door which locked properly instead of a pole to wedge into her bedroom in search of a little privacy.

Nina tried for a smile. She wasn't sure how successful she was, but the very fact of wanting to smile was a relief. "All right," Nina said getting to her feet with the practiced ease of years of ballet, "Where should we start?"