"No chirping," I tell him, but there's a smile on my face. It feels so good, like taking a deep breath after months of having something sitting on my chest. It does come with some rough emotions, like the reminder of all that I've lost, but I do my best to focus on Bits and not the anxious voice in my head.

"Come here, Bits. Stay close to me, okay?" I say, not bothering to hide the need in my voice. "Hold my hand."