Eddy smiled knowingly. “Oh, I doubt that your family is anything like mine, Richard. I doubt that very much.”
Richard was about to continue when the woman returned bearing a tray stacked with sandwiches, cakes, and biscuits. In the centre sat a stout teapot encased in a woollen tea cosy. She placed it on the dining table and turned to the two boys. “I’ve been very rude, Richard,” she gushed. “I’m Edwin’s mother. I’m very pleased to meet you.”
She held out her hand, and Richard took it and shook gently. Her eyes settled on the bible in his lap and she stiffened slightly, pulling her hand away from his grip. “Edwin. Can you put the family bible back in its proper place, please?”
“But mother, I was hoping that Richard might be interested―”
A deep growl made them all jump, but no animal ha
