"If I'm stuck with the two of you," Tahiri said, obvious affection in her voice, "I don't really have a choice, do I? I suppose I don't mind. Now, about those chocolate-chip pancakes . . . and ice cream, King, yes, I haven't forgotten."

"You'll need your shoes, Mom, it's cold out," King informed her, helpfully trotting over to retrieve them from the closet.