“Efficient,” I say at last, settling on the least offensive, possibly complimentary term possible. “You seem efficient.” “Efficient,” he says slowly. “Mm-hmm,” I murmur between pressed lips, not daring to give anything more. He gives me one long, dubious look and then, to my surprise, laughs. It’s the first time I’ve heard it. A heady sound, full and rich. It’s such a nice sound that it’s a real pity to the world he doesn’t laugh more often.
