James turned. "Mom, I didn't know you were coming."

Mrs. Crowe gave her son a tight smile and a once-over. "Yes, well. I wanted to be here in case you didn't show up. I see that I underestimated you. That's a good start, James."

James gave her a mirthless smile in return and stalked to the other end of the conference table.

Linda Crowe looked around the room for the first time since entering it. "Don't mind me, everyone. I'll just be siting in on this meeting. Proceed as planned."

The shuffling and whispers started up again as Mrs. Crowe took the seat next to me. She pulled a portfolio out of her magic cape and opened it to a page of tiny cursive squiggles. She checked off the first squiggle and added another one at the bottom of the list.

"Can I get you a drink, Mrs. Crowe?" I asked.

She stopped writing and looked up with a soft smile. "Water would be lovely please."

"Of course."

I came back with two of those tiny bottles you always imagine you'd finish in a single gulp but never do. I set one on either side of my notebook.

"Thank you, Claira," said Susan.

"Thank you," said Mrs. Crowe, "Your name is Claira? How long have you been with EYC, Claira?"

"I just started last summer, and I've liked it so far."

"Are you sure?"

I blinked. "I'm sorry?"