Karl's lips quirked in a smile that really was weary this time. "Oh, I usually would," he said, "it's just that half the time when I sit down at my computer lately, our favorite little social media application pops up pointless notification messages all over my screen."

He shrugged helplessly, then sighed and made a visible effort to cheer himself up. "Besides," he continued, gesturing at the window and the expanse of table, "the light and space are much better down here than in my office, and it seems a waste not to enjoy this nice spring air a little."