[ When he returns, there is no crackling fire :( or the welcoming scent of tea :( sad day.

But true to her (other) word, at least Sandra is, in fact, present. His disappointment, though predictable and present, passes quickly as he sets down a suspiciously large bag of miscellany. ]

I forgot, you must not be one for drinks. [ oops ] However—I think I can interest you instead in what I found at the market today.

[ His lowkey preening is her cue to ask. (It's building supplies, mindreaders ruin all the surprise.) ]