Me: (happily unloading groceries, proud of myself for coming home early enough to interact with Robert and help with some chores he normally completes uncomplaining and alone)
Robert: (squeezing past me in the pantry doorway) *sigh*
Me: (unloading more groceries in a different corner of the kitchen)
Robert: (standing behind me, waiting) *sigh*
Me: (placing dairy products in the fridge)
Robert: (forcing a smile) You don’t have to do that.
Me: I’m happy to help.
Robert: *sigh*
Me: (putting away more stuff in a cabinet)
Robert: Why don’t you let me do that?
Me: It’s okay. I’ve got it.
Robert: *sigh*
Me: (finally catching on…) I think I’ll just make some soup for myself. (Noisily rummaging for pans in another cabinet)
Robert: So, you’re going back to your office later, right?
Me: Actually, no. I’m staying home this evening.
Robert: *sigh*
Me: Is there work you need to do back on campus?
Robert: Probably. I’m sure something requires my immediate attention like oiling my chair wheels or cleaning chalkboard erasers.
