TAX DEDUCTION THE ELDER: Mom, are the cats old?

ME: Yes, sweetie. They’re going to be 15 in July. That’s like a million people years.

TDTE: So they’re going to die soon?

ME: Well, I think they’ll be with us a while longer for us to love, before they go to God in heaven.

TDTE: Do you think that will be soon?

ME: No, honey. I’m sure they’ve got many happy years to look forward to with us.

TDTE: Oh. [PAUSES] But when they die, I can get a dog, right?

ME: …

TDTE: I hope they die soon.

ME: Honey, I have a question for you. Who’s going to walk the dog? Whether it’s raining or snowing or sunny?

TDTE:…

ME: And clean up the dog poop?

TDTE: Maybe we should get a dog when I’m older. Maybe when I’m 12. Or 20.

ME: We’ll talk about it then, sweetie.

TDTE: Thanks, Mom! You’re the best!

***

Separately, Sidhe Vicious reviewed ETERNAL LOVER! Whee!