[Cool,] Alice says cheerfully, swinging his feet where he perches on the kitchen counter. The word is just a word. It does not have any inherent effect on what passes between them. He doesn't mind her using it and he wouldn't mind her not.

"That is cool," says Janine. "Yes, I will use some of your closet space if necessary, thank you. Would you like to have the inaugural sit on the beanbag chair?"