<em>She loved how he seemed to feel about his bird, as if it were almost human, talking to it and everything.  Not that she doubted the two of them could converse, but even in Frannie's world she hadn't been overly exposed to this kind of thing.</em><br/><br/>"No, I've no familiars, or pets for that matter.  I had allergies when I was much  younger, and even though I've outgrown them, I've tended to shy away from animals.  But I do think your Aero is supurb."<br/><br/><em>She had wanted to know what the bird had said, to make Xavier laugh, but thought it would be rude to ask.  If he had wanted to share with Frannie, he would have.</em><br/><br/>"So no worries with any rodent smells coming from me."<em>She giggled, and again found herself staring into Xavier's eyes.</em><br/><br/>"Do you and Aero share many secrets?  I would imagine she must have a different perspective on matters."