I start to make a snappy retort when River jerks to a stop. I follow his gaze and freeze. Margaret and Reginald Parish are walking up the drive. Reg is carrying a large gift, wrapped in silver paper and tied with a light green bow. The day is hot, and he’s wearing a Polo and shorts; she’s in a sundress. They’re both wearing hopeful, nervous smiles. “Is that them?” River asks in a low, angry voice. “No, my parents would never look that human, even in disguise. That’s my aunt and uncle.”
