That same evening, dad assembled his family and announced his decision: "Steph, you are the oldest and you know what it means to care for your family. This is why I hope you understand my decision. I have arranged a date with a man who will get you into an underground transformation programme. The money he pays will see your sisters through school." Steph burst in tears and pushed her father away who went on: "Listen, I know this is hard, but you would be tranformed anyway in the official programme. Almost all oldest daughters are. So here is a chance for us. And for you. The man promised he would make sure you get some nice owner and a nice animal to be." Steph refused to calm down but her dad had expected nothing else. Nevertheless, he would stand to his decision. Right then, a sleezy looking man came in. He had a slight accent, maybe French, and introduced himself. Looking at Steph he said: "Oh, you must be Stéphanie. Nice to meet xou. I see you are agitated. But that is normal. Just come with me and everything will be fine soon." His voice had a hypnotizing effect and Steph followed withou8t knowing why. There were goodbye hugs all around, Steph's sisters still stunned and a large envelope full of money changed hands as Beth sad don in the man's waiting limousine. And they drove off into the dark.