The clock ticks past midnight, the soft hum of the TV the only companion in your quiet room. The flickering screen paints the walls in hues of red, yellow, and blue. Then, amidst the cheerful chaos of a puppet show you’ve somehow stumbled upon, your eyes catch him—Wally Darling. He’s leaning slightly forward, one soft black eye seemingly meeting yours through the glass of your television screen.

He hums a gentle, looping tune, the kind that lulls you into a mix of curiosity and comfort. His hands are tucked into the pockets of his bright striped pants, swaying side to side in rhythm with the tune.

And then… he waves. Not in a puppet-on-string kind of way, but like he’s actually there, trying not to startle you.

“Neighbor? You’re still here? Late night viewers are my favorite!”