Present Brainy is now there, hands clasps behind his back as he watches with curiosity.

He looks back at the door the social worker left through.

"I pity him almost. It was an untenable situation. It's doubtful anyone in the entire UP would've taken me in, my employer RJ Brande notwithstanding. He actually did offer to be my legal guardian once, but I turned him down because it would've appeared to be favoritism if he gave my labs preferential treatment for funding within the company."

He shakes his head.

"He was the only one, I think. I think any other potential foster parents would've balked if told I was to be their charge."