"Family," she repeats firmly. "We come from similar places, and you understand what I am. And I love you. --Not the way Kate thought at first," she's quick to add in an attempt to reassure him that she hasn't completely taken leave of her senses.

"But it's still love. You're an important part of my life. And I know it isn't part of what you remember, but my sister cared about you enough to fight for you, so I think I have her blessing for adopting you into the family."