That look drifts by Severus like opportunities to do the right thing drift by certain pirates, and he investigates the remainder of his tea while listening to her inquiry. And then looks mildly incredulous.

"It's completely fine," he says. "Supposing you had certain traditions, or were working with something uncouth, you might want to retain your privacy - but such a thing would be based on personal preference. It's commonplace, here."

Something uncouth, like, say, necromancy - which is what Severus was billing himself with when he and Penelope first met, she might recall. And he's never had any problem with it, nor has Njoki. He levels a more critical look at her, thinking about the attack she suffered.

"Have you been bothered by something?"