( He loathes these moments, cutting and threadbare, when he must speak his reasons, make his mind explicit. They stifle him, gaze slanted then briefly shuttered, as he recovers his footing. Considers.

And reviews the facts, as they both know them: )

She appears, unseen. Repeatedly, but in short episodes. Either cannot or does not wish to reject the summons. ( Else, she would simply not allow the repetition of this incident. )

Disappears, rapidly, unknown. No marks. No message. Either no time, or disinterest. ( In other words: )

She is prevented from reaching her father or unable to reject his call. Yet too young to work the sorcery behind escape. Assuredly.