I have been found wanting, Natalie thought; I have made myself unnacceptable and am not worthy. - Shirley Jackson

My ambitions for you are slowly being realised, and, even though you are unhappy, console yourself with the thought that it was part of my plan for you to be unhappy for a while. The fact that you associate intimately with girls who do not care for the things you do should strengthen your own artistic integrity and fortify you against the world; remember, Natalie, your enemies will always come from the same place your friends do.

"I can't help it when people are frightened," says Merricat. "I always want to frighten them more."

When they were silent for a moment the quiet weight of the house pressed down from all around them.