It's as well that Martin texts her before coming up, as it gives her a few minutes to wipe the ridiculous little grin off her face and compose herself. It'd be easy to tease, but it wouldn't be very kind. Nor would it really be that sensible, when all is said and done. If it was just having John around that he missed, he probably wouldn't be bothering her about it. It's as likely that he just misses having company, another living creature to share space with.

Which is easy to understand. She always has some friends around, and she knows what a difference they make.

She's got the kettle on by the time Martin knocks, and she hurries to let him in on the off chance that Peter's on the prowl. "Hullo," she says, stepping back to admit him. The apartment is a bit emptier than it might be otherwise, but the window is still cracked despite the cooling weather, and there's a line of sparrows along the sill, watching everything with their bright little eyes. "There'll be tea in a minute. Make yourself at home."

As she gets the tea ready, she asks, "Have you ever had a cat before? A proper one, I mean."