She heard the audible crunch of pocky. She replied, as though nothing had happened,

"Plus, shouldn't you be supporting your friends' efforts? All those hours spent slaving away in the kitchen. Fighting off rivals for space. Braving the cold to ensure the caramel is perfect."

She swung her foot, readjusting in her seat again, and it pushed her cane out from under the table into his leg with a pointed prod.