The night had deepened.
The moon was large tonight, hanging low in the sky.
After Keira stepped outside, a chill hit her, but she only felt exhilarated. The malice from being called an illegitimate daughter gradually dissipated without her noticing.
She looked ahead at Mr. and Mrs. Allen and approached them. "What's the matter? Is there an issue with Rebecca?"
"No," Mrs. Allen said, "As we were leaving, we saw... that Poppy Hill woman creating a scene at the gate of the Horton family. We thought it would be better to intervene."
Keira was startled, then promptly replied, "Right, okay."
The Allens had returned after leaving, and she thought they had some important matter to discuss, but it turned out to be just that.