He took so long to speak that Lotte thought he might have gone - for good. She'd have been content with that, have some quiet as she tried to figure out a new plan. But then he spoke and she shut her eyes once more.
That was the easiest thing he said yet. "With the singing," she said, under her breath. The tea kettle whistled but she didn't move.
"You don't need to do that..." It was only slightly wary.