I've been saving what I've earned for more practical additions. Clothing, appliances. Decorations are not priority at the moment.

[ Ever the pragmatic one. How South stood being around him at all, he'd never understand. They couldn't be more opposite to one another.

Yet here she was. Offering these gestures of friendship that even those he'd had plenty in common with wouldn't have given over without asking something in return. It buys her a little trust, a little tolerance, a little space in his life while he brings the dishes down to start doling out helpings of rice and seafood. ]