"Waugh waugh, autumn birthday. At least people remember yours. Mine always gets absorbed by the Christmas holiday." He makes a big motion with his arms like an amoeba sucking something up. "Except last year, obviously, since there wasn't much Christmas. So this one has to be double good."

Howard nods. He brings matches from a cabinet out, along with the still-cold pie. "Show me. Seriously, I won't tell."