That gets a laugh out of me and I pet Elan's nose a few times before tucking into Tobias' side, the rabbit cradled between us. Across the room, I can't help but check to see if Christina isn't peering into her hutch again, wondering where her new best friend is gone.

"She's almost tall enough to say it to your face, even," I say, resting my head on his shoulder.

"This is the first time I've ever had a birthday party."