Billie nodded slowly. She realized it would take some time to get used to, but she appreciated the reassurance from Gideon. She was never sure if she was just strange in her feelings about certain things, or if they were understandable. Other children seemed to know right away what to do in a variety of situations that were alien to her. Then again, she didn't know too many people who suddenly found out who their father was.

As if the entire conversation about names flipped a switch, the child found herself suddenly blurting out, "Soot!" She paused and beamed down at the kitten whom she decided somewhat resembled a chimney brush. Or at least a bunch of dirt. "That's what he's gonna be called."