Benedict disengaged his arm from Sophie’s waist with a murmur of, “Don’t move a muscle,” then walked quickly to his mother’s side. “Have I told you lately,” he whispered in her ear, “how much I love you?” “No,” she said with a jaunty smile, “but I know, anyway.” “Have I mentioned that you’re the best of mothers?” “No, but I know that, too.” “Good.” He leaned down and dropped a kiss on her cheek. “Thank you. It’s a privilege to be your son.”
