Rona entered with a lunchbox before I could answer.

Maybe she didn't ask this time since I'd denied her so frequently.

"Stephan Buther, come sample this sandwich. It smells delicious."

She gave me the sandwich with hot cheeks and eager eyes.

I answered dryly, "Thanks for visiting."

She wrung her hands and blushed.

I smelled nothing as I held up her sandwich.

Why can't I smell what you said smells good?

Rona stopped talking and covered her lips.

I hadn't scented in days.

I couldn't smell anything despite my efforts.

Seeing her look made me doubt the crisis was transient.

"I was afraid you'd go mad if I informed you....