Agnes was still blushing, although now it was as much out of modesty as embarrassment. "Oh," she said, coughing nervously. "It's just, um..."

"I can throw it," said the corner.

"And disguise it," Agnes said in a perfect imitation of Chad's voice.

"And sing in harmony with myself," she sang, sounding like a full barbershop quartet.

She looked down at her toes again, and the budgie just whistled.

"Well, that's ONE way to shut it up," said the cockatoo.