BB-9E made a cheerful sound when the rattling stopped. The droid even wobbled back and forth, showing his appreciation. However, 9E was also smart enough to detect when a serious conversation was coming. He was extremely familiar with the rise and fall of his master's voice and could sense that Armitage was irritated. So, without much delay, 9E sped off to explore the grounds, giving the two men some space.
Peace, quiet, and a cigarette were pretty reasonable things to want. Armitage certainly wouldn't fault his boyfriend for that. He had the right to privacy, had the right to want to be alone to cope with things. Ben didn't need to tell his lover everything. But hiding the smoking habit from him was just ridiculous.
"You're right, it's not the worst thing I've caught you doing. But I still think it's a silly thing to keep from me. It's even sillier that you believe I'd think less of you for it." Internally, Armitage had softened, but his tone remained vexed. He couldn't let Ben believe he had gotten away with this that easily, could he? ..even though he absolutely had.
Armitage playfully slapped at his hand, opening the carton and pulling out the least-smushed cigarette to place on his own lips. He then gestured with his index finger, implying he wanted Ben to light it for him.