"It is what it is, Clarence. Should I not have the means to put you up elsewhere, if it were necessary? If it was what you preferred? I am not a fool. I would not overstrech my means. Believe me, you're wanted here. And not just by my son. I'm fond of you." Maybe if she says it enough, the boy will begin to believe her.

In truth, Yotsuyu is just happy he's willing to stay here, where his guardians will know he's safe. She's not precisely a stranger.

She glanced aside at Clarence, and followed his gaze after where her son had gone. "He has a good heart, but do not think that he is weak for it. There is a good head--and yes, a stubborn one!--on those shoulders. If he gets hurt, it will be a learning experience, and he will come through it all the stronger. He is no fool, either."

Arrogant to say, perhaps, but Yotsuyu has done her best to make sure of that.