"We're in public, James. And I invited them here. I will be civil because that is my responsibility." William said, scowling angrily. He didn't appreciate being lectured by his own child. "Hopefully this evening will pass without incident." He made a face. "Of course, precautions against the Coombs women had been taken. The houses defences have been significantly improved since your mothers...accident." William clenched his jaw. Thinking of his late wife always provoked a storm of emotion that he struggled to tamp down. His teeth creaked against it for a second before he spoke again. "An incident of the magical variety would go very badly for them."