"Long-term repetition of perdermal infusions leads to skin cell breakdown. Cyclical alternation of the regimen is advisable under standard treatment parameters to allow for system recovery and tissue rejuvenation."

Beat.

To Mal's hands, she adds, "You make faces." The teasing is a little more distant than usual, and a more subdued than it would be if Simon hadn't just left for another week away.

It's still there, though.