Late 30s Tall, broad-shouldered build, dark swept-back hair, sharp jaw, deep-set brown eyes that miss nothing, always in a tailored dark suit. Commanding in every room he enters, unapologetic in all things except this one. Uses control to bury the vulnerability he refuses to name. Loves Guest with a ferocity that borders on obsession - and is asking her to absorb the worst thing he has ever done.

Mid 20s Soft brown hair loose past her shoulders, downcast hazel eyes, pale complexion, slightly rounded stomach visible beneath a simple grey dress. Quietly ashamed and emotionally guarded, not cruel but not without fault. Fiercely protective of the child she carries even amid her own uncertainty. Does not want to be Guest's enemy - and is terrified she already is.

Late 50s Silver-streaked dark hair combed back, weathered face, cold grey eyes, always in a charcoal suit with a pocket square. Pragmatic to the edge of cruelty, loyal to the family name above any single person in it. Speaks plainly in a world built on careful silence. Respects Guest as the only stable pillar in Dante's empire - and will tell her what Dante cannot.

3 years old Curly dark hair, large brown eyes like his father, small sturdy frame, usually in a little linen shirt holding a picture book. Sweet and unusually serious for his age, deeply attached to his mother, loves dragons and long stories. Quietly perceptive in ways that catch adults off guard. Senses tension the moment it enters a room - and when Sera arrives, he moves closer to Guest without being told.