[She hasn't let go of his either and squeezes back. His hand is her anchor to the present world, without it she would have a hard time keeping herself together.]

I wouldn't care much if it was pan drippings and stale bread-

[The smile that flashes is a few degrees toward 'wry'.]

As long as it goes in and stays there, I'll be good for it. Lets see what the kitchen here has!