"There are decaffeinated versions," she teased. "Or so I've heard. I'm pretty sure my blood would get a trucker from California from here to Tallahassee." Once the water was heated, Pepper poured it over the tea leaves through the strainer into the tea pot and brought it over with a cup and some gingerbread cookies on a plate, to sit with him, putting the cookies where they both could reach.
"One thing I miss about having my own place is not being able to decorate, myself, but I'd hate trying to tackle this place on my own," she told him. "I don't have the time for it. I'd rather have it done by someone else than not at all. And it looks beautiful."
She didn't want to pry. He looked frustrated, and the phone he'd been fixated on had disappeared pretty quickly. Pouring herself some tea, Pepper figured it couldn't hurt to ask.
"How are things with you? You seem a little stressed today."