"Stop fussing with that a minute and listen, I've got something important to ask you, chica .... No, I can't talk to your back, damn it— turn around here— this is serious, now."
"Yes," said Alison. Her heart gave a little extra beat. She laid down the ice tray.
"I want you to think about it and be sure," he said.
"Yes." She turned around to face him. He was looking very serious and solemn. "What— what is it?"
"Would you like a half-Abyssinian kitten for Christmas?"