“Would you mind if I keep the oil warmer in my bathroom? And will you get it for me?”
As soon as I finished my sentence, I wondered, “What am I really asking here?” I knew he’d be happy for me to keep it in my bathroom. I just wanted him to get it for me, since it was beyond my reach. So why didn’t I just ask?
He laughed a little at the question and happily fetched it for me. Not a big deal in this case, but communication habits are tenacious—and fascinating.