[He's silent for a while, regarding the kid for a long moment. Not stubborn refusal -- the face gives it away. He's not turning him down because of pride. This is something else.]

[So he nods.]

All right. Hold tight.

[He's moving more steadily these days, so it doesn't take him long after he pads away to return. Holding one of those plastic bags people use to pick up after their pets. It's even labeled, in careful block letters - "CAT CRAP. DON'T TOUCH."]

[And he sets it down beside the 'gift'.]

Here's where we put shitty presents in this house. Think there's room for one more?

'Cause I do.