After breakfast, the family gathered in one of the sitting rooms. No one mentioned departure directly; instead, they spoke about ordinary things.
His brother discussed repairs to the training ground. His father joked that the estate's engineers were considering charging them personally while his mother insisted they deserved it.
Even the fox somehow became involved after stealing a biscuit from his brother's plate.
"You've taught it terrible habits, this is going to be really hard to change. I don't even want to know how many times I've said that since coming here."
His brother looked offended.
"I did no such thing, and it's actually everyone here spoiling her, do not single me out."
The fox continued eating the stolen biscuit. His father coughed into his teacup while his mother looked at him knowingly.
"...Don't start."
"I haven't said anything."
"You've also been feeding it."
"I refuse to answer."
