"Ha."
The sound escaped before I could stop it.
Johansberg watched me as I lowered my head, pressing a hand against the table. I tried to contain myself, but the longer I thought about his offer, the harder that became.
"Hahaha!"
My palm struck the table several times, making the plates rattle. It was considerably louder than I had intended, and by the time I raised my head again, the Section Chief's brows had drawn together.
I stopped smiling and reached for my glass.
"My apologies. My throat was itchy."
"….."
The drink helped a little. I swallowed, rubbed the front of my neck, and looked back at him.
"Anyways, what were you saying again?"
"I want you to⎯"
"Hahahahah!"
This time, I nearly spilled my drink. I put it down before smacking the table again, catching a plate with my other hand when it came dangerously close to the edge.
That would've been wasteful.
"Is this a joke to you?"
"Hm? What?"
