Joseph Delaney

“My mother’s a woman,” I said, suddenly feeling a little angry, “and I trust her.”

“Mothers usually are women,” said the Spook. “And mothers are usually quite trustworthy, as long as you’re their son. Otherwise, look out! I had a mother once and I trusted her, so I remember the feeling well.

“Do you like girls?” he asked suddenly.

“I don’t really know any girls,” I admitted. “I don’t have any sisters.”