"Projecting? What, I'd notice if I head out? I'd certainly hope so." He beams at her, holding his hands back so that Adelaide can feel free to play with both kittens. There's no need to make things awkward and risk brushing of hands, and he will have plenty of time to pet cats ahead of him.

"And yes, she is. Far better at it than I am. You'd think I starved her, that I never rubbed her stomach, or any of it. And yet I let her tangle her little claws in my hairband and steal my pillow and anything she'd like. All I ask is that she try to take down the small pests that get into the tent, and be content in her pouch when we're out and about."