"It has. I can't work out, when I think about it -- was my life quieter before? I don't remember having a lot of free time. I suppose I just... spent it differently. More time feed dogs and kittens and less time being broken out of basements in Southwark, I suppose."

He wrinkles his nose, looks down at Lily and tilts his head questioningly at her. Yes, dog, that is you Lily. You are a dog he feeds.

"Do you ever think about it? What your life might be like if you hadn't become a guardian."

Hadn't gone to eat with Lancelot. Hadn't gone on strange and frustrating adventures with him. Hadn't hugged Lily until all his black clothes were white.