"It makes you optimistic," Hannibal said. "I'm not saying that I think it is or isn't a good idea, only that you shouldn't let fear drive your decisions." He petted Jono's hair for a moment. "Maybe a year or so to think about it would be a good idea for you both."

There was a slight shift in the bed, and when Hannibal looked down, there was a grey cat looking up at him and giving him a mostly silent meow. He debated trying to insist it stay on the floor, then just gave it another piece of meat. It was, after all, a cat.