"They do seem very cheery." Many birds did, but the ravens in particular for such a harsh time of year. He wishes suddenly that he was back outside enjoying their aerial acrobatics but for now the warmth is more attractive. He has been cold plenty these past few days.

"I was never in the right place at the right time." The result of an isolated childhood followed by a sequestered young adulthood. Waffles' head drops heavily onto his lap followed by two paws and David instantly finds a treat from the table to offer the canine, absently stroking his soft, wavy fur.

"I could hear the music some years."