“Ice cream again. Now I [I]am[/I] worried, If you’re that determined about it.” Cinead responded with a short laugh as he too got to his feet, stretching his arms up and over his head for a moment, his back popping in response. “ as long as you don’t try to make me try something like, say, broccoli., For instants. I think will be safe.”

Fortunately for Anna, Cinead hadn’t noticed her examining her burn. If he had, he probably would have started making a fuss over it. As it was, he was focused on extracting a second pair of shoes he kept in a box near the front door, sliding them onto his feet without bothering to go get a pair of socks.

“ you forget.” He then said, Opening the door for her. “ before you, I had no reason to venture out. I had plenty of time to study on my hands. So no, I won’t need to lecture you this time.” He grinned, eyes bright with amusement.