Ernie had no interest in making a fool of himself—not with Michaud, and especially not while they were away from the public, whose presence Ernie was confident would stop Michaud from doing anything rash—so opted for silence at Michaud's teasing.

Until he dared pick up his rock.

"Nuh-uh," he responded with a scoff, moving to put his body between Michaud's and the only noticeable exit from the bushes. "I want that one. I was the one looking for something in the first place! I'll give you the next one," he declared, holding his hand out for Michaud to—hopefully—hand it over.