[ It's just instinct, even after two years, and he speaks without hesitation. ]

Four. I have uh- [ But then he stops himself abruptly, realizing what he's said. It's out there now, though, and he gets the sense from Brianna that she won't pry if he doesn't want to say much. ] Three, actually, now. I had four, but we lost my twin sister about two years ago.

[ Quickly, he diverts back to her. ] How long had it been since you saw your mother?