Silas said, "It's not healthy, you know. Animals are like people; if they get too chubby, they can get sick."

Eamon blinked. "Really? I thought a little extra fluff was a good thing?"

Silas shook his head. "Being skinny isn't good, but being too fat is worse. Million's been hanging out with you a lot lately; he looks like he's not getting enough exercise, and maybe you're sneaking him too many treats." He frowned, more serious now. "It can actually shorten his life."

"Wait, seriously?" Eamon glanced over his shoulder, quickly snatching the drumstick from Million's paws.

Million, mid-chomp, froze in disbelief. His big black eyes stared up at Eamon, utterly bewildered. He clearly couldn't understand why his precious chicken leg had been swiped. Wouldn't one more drumstick be fine?

"Woof?" Million protested, letting out a little yip.

"You're practically a furry soccer ball at this point, buddy. You really can't eat any more, or you'll puff up even more," Eamon scolded gently.

Calliope crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow. "Million, you seriously need some exercise. You're probably as out of shape as Eamon's old armchair."

Million sighed.

"Really, look at that belly, round as a pumpkin," Calliope added, chuckling. She'd never expected Eamon to be so good at spoiling pets.

Million hadn't always looked pudgy. He had long fur, so he always looked a bit round, but was actually a healthy weight. Ever since he started sticking close to Eamon, however, Calliope was convinced Million had genuinely gained weight. All that fluff hid a lot, but when he got wet, it was clear he'd become a little butterball. The way his white fur shone only made him look plumper.

Million tried to look at his own belly, perhaps to assess the damage, but couldn't see over his fluff. After a few unsuccessful attempts, he looked defeated.

"Did I really overfeed him?" Eamon said, sounding guilty. He was starting to worry about Million's health.

"Yeah, probably not the best. But hey, it's not too late. Why don't I help him get some exercise? We'll get him back in shape," Calliope offered.

Eamon looked at Million, concern furrowing his brow. "Do you think it'll help if we start now?"

Calliope grinned. "Of course. It's never too late."

"Good, that's a relief." Eamon breathed a sigh of relief.

Then, something occurred to him, and he looked up. "By the way, what brings you two here? Weren't you supposed to be traveling? You didn't come all the way back here for me. You're young. Go out, see the world! It's the holidays, after all."

"I'm too old for all that. I'm happiest right here in this old house," he added with a shrug.

"Well, we wanted to spend some time with you before heading out," Calliope said warmly. "If you want to come, we'd love to have you with us!"

"Oh, no, no. You kids go have your fun. What would an old man like me do tagging along? I'd just slow you down," Eamon chuckled. "Besides, I've got Million to keep me company. That's more than enough for me." He shrugged, clearly content.

"Oh, and by the way," Silas said, turning to Eamon, "Gideon stopped by earlier. What did he want?"

"Oh, that?" Eamon sighed. "It's always about the company with him. He never wanted to manage the place properly, and now he regrets it. Wants me to help him smooth things over! He thinks Calista's not up for it, says she's too young." Eamon glanced at Silas. "What do you think? Is Calista cut out for it, or is Gideon right?"

Silas considered. "Calista might be a little green, but she's hardworking, and honestly, she's got more talent than Gideon. I trust her a lot more than I trust Gideon."