I closed the laptop lid and headed for the door. My jacket was hanging on the rack, and I slid a hand into the pocket, fishing out my cigarette pack. One cigarette between my lips, a flick of the lighter, and the first drag hit my lungs like a cold shower. God, I needed that.
Minne was at the dining table now, wiping it down and drying it with a towel.
"Why didn't you go with them?" I asked. "Would've been a nice change of air. Shopping and all."
"I need some stuff to take care of in the house, Master," she said. Then her eyes drifted toward the window. "And they say another storm might hit today. So… I'm scared a bit."
"Hmm." I nodded slowly. "Well, if there's anything you want, I can buy it for you online, alright?"
"Anything?"
That was… not the reaction I expected from her. But whatever. I shrugged, trying not to sound like I was bluffing.
"Yeah. Sure. Anything. What did you have in mind, Minne?"
She opened her mouth, then closed it again. "Umm… nevermind, Master."
