It is nice. Even though I don't know the holiday, it seems to have put something into the whole city. Even in the face of darker realities, there seems to be a greater softness in people, as if buoyed on by hope. Whether or not it's to do with religion or just the soft, small lights against white snow, I can't say for certain.

"I think I like holidays. This...seems a lot more generous than Choosing Day. Giving gifts and being kind...I like the sound of all of that," I say.

This place can be cruel. Even Allison, the host of the party, knows that since she's seen the worst of me here. Even so, a place with Christmas can't be too terrible.