I suppose any excuse to indulge is as good as any for most people.

[It was quiet in other ways, he had noticed he wasn't feeling any phantom pains or aches via proxy the last several days - or someone stabbing themselves in the hand. This already had him on edge.]

I suppose Miss Cujo is taking her time coming back?

[He asks, almost conversationally, but the distracted look in his eyes had vanished]