Pressing his lips together in a vain attempt not to burst out laughing at the accuracy of his step-son’s statement Orlando instead nodded sagely, as though he were being given the wisdom of Socrates, however, try as he might, he could not stop the delight in his eyes.

“I doubt we’d get much of an owl for uncle Andren,” he commented drily. “And a cat couldn’t possibly be as untidy,” he added with a grin that fell ever so slightly when he glanced at the list again. He softened his voice, unable to quite believe that it was almost time for his step-son to leave home. “You know Rex, there’s no shame in missing us. We shall certainly miss you.”