[The moment she hesitated, his smile grew. There were things he'd never get back after his exile. Opportunities lost, stolen from him. Even with that chapter coming to a close, he supposed they'd never happen even then, if only because he wasn't quite the same as he way--or maybe he was more himself than he'd ever been.

That would have been far worse a problem.

Seeing Gin's expression change to something he remembered, even distantly, he felt a little satisfied despite his disappointment. She made an effort, tactically, to reposition herself, and rightfully so. Snapping open a cupboard, he downplayed his teasing by giving her a moment's reprieve. Tea leaves, kettle, water, stove. Possibly in a particular order.]

I suppose it was. [A pause.] You know, I'd never insult you by giving you cheap tea for the sake of it. I've just come to like this brand.