“No, it was a fad for a while. She didn’t like it, but she kept the mat to use if I ever had guests for sleepovers.”

“I bet it got a lot of use.”

“No, not really.” He sighed. I looked at him and suddenly he seemed very sad. I realized that I was dealing with a very lonely little boy. I leaned over and kissed him on the cheek.

“When you get up, I’ll need your help with a special project.”

“Okay.”

“Now, one hour. Not a peep out of you until then.” I said as I flicked off the light and walked out of the living room.

“Fine…Peep, peep, peep.”