Somehow, being called son was not the most surprising thing about what the man said to Edmund.  How could it be, when a genuine job, however sort term, was so close within reach?

"Not a problem, sir, none of that," he assured the man, even if his mind was racing.  Being away from Whitby felt like a blessing, but - Mable.  He would have to leave her here all on her own.  Father Brennan was just down the street, but he couldn't just push his sister onto the man for however long.  Would this man let him bring her along for the job?

Would she even want to come?

"Thank you very much sir, I mean it," Edmund continued.  "I'll be here at three, I swear.  You - you won't be disappointed!"