The Chosen Ones were arrayed behind him. Everyone looked anxious — except McKenna, who strode majestically into the foyer in time to scowl at Caleb for daring to perform one of his favorite butler duties. To placate McKenna, Amanda made a show of wiping her boots on the large bristly boot brush he kept by the door and carefully handing him her coat and hat. How he kept track of everyone’s outerwear was a mystery. But he always appeared with the right coats and scarves, all looking suspiciously pressed, whenever anyone mentioned that they’d be going out. Charisma was, not surprisingly, the first to speak. “Well? Did he agree? Will he help you get your sister back?” She bounced on the balls of her feet in anticipation. Irving’s voice sounded from behind the Chosen Ones, slicing effortlessly through their murmurs despite its halting quietness. “This would be best discussed over dinner.” The Chosen Ones, all dedicated to the importance of an excellent meal, followed Irving as Martha pushed him into the dining room.
