"So far, all of that sounds like pretty good news," Jamie said, taking one of the crab rangoons. "Because yes, Dad sticking around longer is what we're all hoping for."

That sentence made him feel cold all over, and he had to work a little to swallow his mouthful. "Already?" he asked. "I mean, I know it's a good idea to have one, I just...hate what they mean, you know?"