"What's the dream?" she asked, interested in the new mystery, but focused upon the baby. Equally focused, but upon her and no one else, he answered in a soft voice, "You'll know soon enough," as he disappeared from view. He reappeared in the attic, concern clear on his face as he began pacing. It was a major risk, this lowering of all defenses, all barriers. Yet his course was set, the time had come to declare his love for her, for his family, and when this Christmas night ended, his heart would finally be opened to them all.