Someday, in theory, he'll learn this--because someday, in theory, he'll have a girlfriend to introduce to his mother. But that's not now.

Now, however, is the time to snort at her softly, lips not quite quirking higher but certainly settling more comfortably into the pleased expression.

/We'll see you Christmas Eve, then, lover./

That, Eden, is your Christmas present--Cadogan Thomas saying the word 'lover' ever at all. Also cake and a hat, if Mother Thomas had her way. But mostly this right here.