Den Vaderland Getrouwe

Nicely, actually.

[ s n o r t . ]

Yes, he wakes up wanting nothing today, nothing but further peace in the dissonance of the city. Despite the sunlight that shines in through the tall windows, the church is still quite cold, gracing those nearly gaunt cheeks and forcing those fingers to the safe haven of deep pockets. The stone clings to the night air, unable to let it go. The columns echo the sounds of footsteps, savoring the memory of company alight. ‘We are more than a mausoleum,’  he thinks, looking up into the empty space, past the plaques and names of those passed that shine true on the stained glass. 

The day has only just begun. He takes a seat on an empty pew. Says no prayers. Asks no questions. His fingers do not twiddle in his pockets.

You claim dignity but hide behind a mask. [He’s not really serious, seeming indifferent while pointing out the obvious.]

Why would I care about what stupid cigs you smoke?

Can’t think of why you would, which is why it was just a joke. Something about the way that question was asked just reminded me of you to a T... somehow both straightforward and defensive.

July, the month I have to buy enough cake to feed every government official. [He looks as if he could almost roll his eyes.] 

[He has a brusque and short-lived laugh, but it’s surprisingly warm in tone.]

You only prove my point, squirt.

Feeling moody, South Italy?

I may have a reputation for being tight with my wallet, but I’m not cheap when it comes to non-guilty pleasures.

I wish I could say I’ve been brand loyal, but it would be a lie. Over the years all of the brands keep buying each other, anyway. If we’re talking shag tobacco for one of my pipes and I don’t have a block of shag tobacco to cut myself I prefer Drum tobacco... sometimes Van Nelle. If I’m smoking a thin pipe like a kiseru, obviously the type and cut of tobacco will change, but I prefer full, robust flavor. [He realizes he’s getting carried away- it’s one of the subjects he can easily run his mouth on, and he doesn’t look too guilty about it.]

But you’re asking cigarettes, aren’t you. It depends on circumstance. If all I’ve got is some corner store I probably won’t have much selection- everywhere carries Marlboro Reds, all over the world. If I want something domestic I can go for Cabellerro, Gladstone, Belinda or Tivolli.