As we wait for the man to arrive I say the same mantra over and over again in my head to calm my nerves. They will not take Rabbit. They will not take Rabbit.

Each of us is told to stand at the foot of our beds as the man makes his way down one side of the room, then down the other. He gazes at our faces as he passes, although he is virtually unreadable. His beautiful companion follows behind him. She smiles at each of us as she passes, her eyes twinkling like diamonds.

When he's seen all of us he takes Father Urselle aside and I watch them whisper together. It's a short conversation, just a few quick words from him, followed by something said by Father Urselle. They come to an agreement quickly.

"Moppet," Father Urselle calls, gesturing for Moppet to approach. "—and?" Urselle looks back to the man for confirmation but the beauty at his side bursts from his grasp and skips across the room, scooping little Rosie into her arms. Rosie is too stunned to cry out. Even though she glances back at me for reassurance I find myself unable to give her any.