My status in the household was rather ambiguous as the former au pair girl. Should I really be left in charge of the children three decades later?

That question was answered when I attempted to change the sodden nappy on a toddler. The nappy removed, he child melted into a tiny glob of clear gel. Then the gel transformed into a small bird. It immediately took fright and flew away.

How was I going to explain the missing child to the family?