"As with many things, some parts are easier to speak of than others. As you well know." The Ghost gives Dan a significant look, since they know the Christmases that the man won't talk about. "Our way is easier, in many ways.

"And Mattie is a good woman. Strong and understanding. The sort of person a kid like Remy needs." The sort of woman a child who has never had parents, really, needs.

Remy sneaks a bit of the sausage as Mattie tells him what she's doing. She pretends not to see, of course. "He'll heal. This is the start of it."