"I shouldn't pry," Sybil is quick to assure him, imagining the scandalised tone Mary would have taken if she'd heard some of Sybil's questioning. Never mind her mother or father. "You've no need to tell me everything. I'm not your confessor."

Sybil nods, pulling her books to her chest. "Thank you," she repeats, unsure if he has made the offer out of politeness or because he means it. "I should go, I work early tomorrow."