Deepwood Weald pure pumpkin

her praise for dutch—any praise for dutch, really—warmed his heart. oh, i know, he replied, the corners of his eyes creasing in a pleased smile. he takes after his mother; i can't take much credit.

a babysitter! he was surprised the new parents would let a relative newcomer within their orbit, especially with easy at hand—but evidently, his son had seen something in her worthy of trust.

well, with four of them, they'll certainly need the help, aditya replied, grinning.

he tilted his head in query. where did you come from, billie? he asked. she was older (though obviously not as ancient as he) and had an incredibly easygoing nature that he didn't much see around these parts.

and that, plus her dog blood. . .

well, he wondered, was all.