`` i do not think that is a safe subject for you . '' he gasped , `` will you let me have it , then ? '' he politely said hello , the trio waved stiff response . `` you and me , '' he took his finger and pointed back and forth between them , `` that is what matters . if you want to keep chattering , that 's fine with me . '' * * * several hours later , i decided i 'd had enough . i stuck my tongue out at him and he squeezed my hand . 