I-- yes, mom. [It wasn't meant to be derogatory toward Jack but it wasn't a word that she would allow under any circumstances. But the other high-class elite wouldn't give it a second thought. Jack was considered as such, even if he blended in well. He wasn't old-money, hadn't been raised from birth with a silver spoon in his mouth.]

...I miss mum. I bet she'd be thrilled with this turn of events?

[His own tea steeped, he discarded the bag and stirred in some sweetner]

I'm prepared for that. The minute I think about leaving Jack it's like something unbearable.

[Perhaps as unbearable as it had been for Vastra having lost Jenny. Eugene gave Vastra a concerned look, knowing that her loss had changed her. And not always for the better. If at all.]

I'll do what I can to protect him-- and us.