#crystalburdened

Her hands quietly exchange responsibilities; right hand now flat to hold the pie and left hand new freed to move. “Layle, what a spectacular job--” Her finger hovers over the crust. “Not a crack around and nothing is spilling out, it is a flawless transition between the two and it doesn’t even look like they were separated at all!” 

Another sniff, she couldn’t help it as it accompanies a content and audible hum. “And you can’t miss any of the vegetables and stock you used for the pie. That’s all I could recognize,” she wrinkles her nose, now her curiosity legible on her face, “asides from the meat. Which I hope isn’t something too foreign or expensive.”

 Though, she leans closer to him, cracking a sly smile. Her index finger curls slightly, pressing down his chin, as she whispers, “Unless your other occupation has been helping you with your budgeting lately.” 

Such a mischievous tune disappeared as the Hatter boots that side of her out of the conversation. Expression softens, familiar concern in her eyes, and she lifts his chin. She whispers again, “Don’t get too intoxicated with all newly acquired wealth. Save up all that you can.” 

Her hand retracts its touch, voice at its normal volume, enthusiasm returning. “With the surplus of extra pie dough there can be,” she explains, “you have so much plain space on top of the potpie that you can use the spare dough to decorate it.” She hums, making out simple shapes, finger still hovering away from the pie. “One of these days, whenever you like, come to the home and use my kitchen. I can equip you with the right tools like a paring knife to make intricate shapes like flowers and leaves to decorate your crust. However, knowing your skill, you’d probably create something as beautiful to look at that is unique to your style.” 

“Layle, you did amazing,” Sophie nods her head, smile brimming with pride. Carefully, both of her hands return to holding the plate. “I’m surprised you haven’t considered making a small business out of this. Not a permanent one, of course, but it’s a smart idea for a pop-up shop whenever you...” A forceful swallow happens about the impending future. “Return to your travels around the world.” 

Gingerly, the pie is returned to Layle’s hands and her scarred palms shortly then flatten the creases of her apron. 

“Enjoy your work, Layle, you rightfully earned it.” 

Sophie waves at Layle and tucks her hands into the pockets of her apron. “I need to get back to work. Let’s discuss baking and cooking later on whenever you’re available, alright? I really want to know your process!”