[ He can't deny that, so he just smiles, serving up pasta and sauce as he listens. She certainly sounded like she'd had a proper upbringing; the affirmation is one he takes gratefully.

Good to know when he's right. ]

I celebrated my thirtieth birthday a few months ago; a change of pace now seems like a bad idea, and in any case, there are plenty of people around here willing to risk their lives so I don't have to.

It's not cowardice so much as I'd hate to get in the way. You understand, right?