The wrought-iron gate has taken to creaking when drawn open. It had been on a list of things Ellis had meant to see to, put off until the weather was more agreeable. The clanking scrape of it announces him, to what Ellis had assumed would be an empty garden.

It would be a lie to say he didn't consider retreating, regardless of how obvious his entrance had been, when he realizes Wysteria is sat out in the garden.

"You needn't do that," is what he says instead, as he approaches. "You've been very clear about your participation in their raising."