“Yes, it’s good! I prefer a mix of florals and fruits when it comes to chilled tea. It’s refreshing.”

She looked pleased by the praise. “I’m honored you’d compare it to the Carline Canopy. That’s one of my favorites.”

“Good to know,” Saeta nodded, then looked thoughtful, “Not in this weather. I like sweet iced tea when it’s warm, but when it’s cold? Something sort of mild, smokey, milky… That feels the most comforting.”

“Hence today’s choice.” She took a careful sip after a couple moments.

With a smile, Saeta disappeared into her house. Faint sounds of general kitchen clatter made their way outside, and she soon returned with a tray.

“Here we go! I didn’t add sugar or anything, just in case. It should be fairly sweet and mild already.” She took a seat across from Panne.

( Thank you! 🥹💕 I haven’t forgotten you and Silas, I promise!!! )

“Tea warms the body, but company warms the soul,” she responded with a soft laugh. She gestured for her guest to take a seat. “Today’s blend is black tea with a bit of vanilla and caramel. It seemed seasonal.”

“Why don’t you settle in? I’ll be back in a moment.”

“Sorry for being so abrupt about it,” she chuckled, gesturing for her to follow. “It’s just a bit chilly today, and I have a pot on. I was going to enjoy a cup on my patio, so I thought I’d see if anyone else wanted some, too.”

“Do you really have the room to refuse it?” she wondered aloud. “To just ignore whatever they’re trying to plot?”

“I’m sure the rest of us can hold down the fort,” she smiled, squeezing back. “I mean, Oddjobs will still be here, right? If it’s anything I can’t handle alone, I can call for backup — and can come home, heroically swoop in, then save me.”

She frowned around the rim of her own glass. “I hate being apart, but… What makes you so suspicious of such a request? Do you think it’s a trap? You handle those all the time.”

“Oh? Is it serious?” She took a seat, grabbing the wine first. “Let’s hear it, babe.”

“Good! Just gathering today. Gotta stock up before winter hits.” She eyed the apron with amusement. “Smells delicious!”

“A wise choice,” she teased, kissing his cheek as she passed by to wash her hands. “Sounds delicious, though. Shall we?”

“Soup? That sounds wonderful after such a chilly day.” She hung up her jacket.

“All three,” she grinned. “In that order.”

( The screenshot of her singing wouldn’t lie to me? 🧐 Saeta would be a fan, for sure! )

With a smile, she typed back, “How about 8? And just yourself. 😊 Unless you want to stay the night — then maybe grab some pajamas!”