She just shakes her head; there's nothing to thank her for, even if she won't dismiss the impulse outright. Nothing can be taken for granted. She'd be here anyway.

Some things negate petty squabbles. If they had any, this would be one.

She settles the kitten in her lap, stroking her ears and ignoring the way she bats at her fingers in annoyance at being kept from the food.

"I want you to come with me to Creekside," she says. "Vanessa, too, if she needs a place. We'll work something out."