In answers to 16 clues, one letter must be removed before entry in the grid. Definitions refer to the full answers: word play and letter count refer to grid entry.
21a Cupids accepted month at home (Italy) (6) I have "I" as the last letter to be entered in the grid
12a Intoxicating chew piano worker brought back containing drug (6) In the grid I have R????T
16d Animal almost emaciated, sadly (8, 2 words) I have ????E???
16 D Siamese Cat with the 's's removed
12 A. Something like 'areca nut', minus the 'a's
21 - Am trying to remember this one - will post again if it comes back to me!