He shrugged, "I don't know, but I know better than to believe our beloved Ministry's statement that they're all gone."
He schooled his features as she insisted that she handle Regulus as well. He didn't quite see how the younger man needed to be more limited than he was. He certainly wasn't sure if he could or even wanted to honour her decision.
"He and Lucius have already spoken," he admitted reluctantly, "And I've informed them both that they are under my protection and therefore off limits." He was resolute in this. He was obligated to offer succor to his father's image, but his cousin had been his own choice.
"Regulus is much more understanding. Maybe it is the nature of not being that much younger than when he died. Or perhaps of political choices." He looked at her, "Shadow or not, I've never had anyone near my equal close to my age, and it has been refreshing." It wasn't a demand. He'd never be so foolish. It was a request of his mother, a desire. One he hoped she would understand.
Perhaps bringing up Regulus wasn't the best idea? Perhaps he should return the conversation to the other topic that would irritate her.