"That's because it is good, Mom," said Caroline. She cocked her head. "What's for dinner tonight?"

"I don't feel like cooking anything, so how about if we phone for a Chinese?"

"Sounds good to me," said Carl, and Caroline nodded.

"Me too," she said.

"What time is it now? Carl, you're the only one with a watch on."

"Just after three, Mom. Plenty of time yet."

"Okay. Unless mistress here has any immediate plans for me?" Caroline shook her head, grinning. "Okay, since I have free time I'll watch that programme I recorded last night. Come in whenever you like, kids. I'll order the food for about six. Okay?"

"Fine,...