I catch that little twitch of her lips. I want to kiss it away, but we're still in public, and, much as I love her, I know that's still not acceptable conduct in nearly every part of the world.

"You know I respect your freedom," I say pointedly as I start the car and peal out of my parking space. "Just as I respect Sousuke's, I just." I sigh, passing a slow car so I can go as fast as I please as we head for our estate.

"I think we need to be cautious. At that school. Jum-bowhale says there's a great darkness brewing there. We need to be extra careful."

I reach across to her with my free hand as I drive, gathering her hand in my own and gripping it tight.