I break my penetrating gaze at Ettore when something over his shoulder catches my attention. I step to the side so I can get a better look at what it is. I stifle a sigh as I watch Zander, holding the stuffed animal tightly, moving slowly around the couch toward us. He has a curious look on his normally impassive face as he approaches.
Ettore turns to see what I am reacting to. He starts to ask me a mental question, and I hold my hand up forcefully telling him to be quiet. Fortunately, he delivers. All the other boys in the room turn to watch, expectant expressions on their faces, as this is the first time Zander has purposely taken the initiative to interact with someone.
Zander walks over to us, looking at Ettore, his mouth opening and closing slightly several times. His eyes are sauce
