So evasive. For every second that passed in which the constable avoided looking at him, Malachi's desire to steal his gaze was only made more intense. It was a painfully quick switch, he'd found, whenever something caught his curiosity and clawed it free of the unaffected countenance he sought to wear.

"That sounds perfect," he agreed with a grateful dip of his head.

He started to say more, but cut himself off before the constable could think twice about voicing his request.

'Unable' was a peculiar choice of word. Malachi hoped he hadn't frightened him off, but he did not push for an explanation.

"Of course," granted Malachi. "I can bring it to you instead. And please, never hesitate to ask for anything. I'm here to help in any way you need, constable."

The question of why Crane was unable to retrieve the basket himself was scratching at the inside of his brain, yes, but he smiled through it and hoped the man could take his words to heart.

"If you wouldn't mind showing us the way, I would be grateful."