[ while he helps himself to more congee, she roots around in her cupboards for another cup and her stash of tea. sorry, it's western tea—earl gray, to be exact—so he'll have to settle for that. she pours enough hot water to fill two mugs, letting the tea steep for a moment before coming back to the cart. ]

I'm not so debilitated that my guest needs to serve me. [ amusement lingers in her tone as she hands him one of the mugs. ] I'm glad to know it's helped.

[ how it managed to get in here without either of them noticing is still beyond her. in the meantime, she'll take some of that oatmeal, adding a handful of berries to it. ]

Will you remind me of your name? I don't often forget them so quickly, but circumstances being what they are, I hope you'll forgive me for asking.