He glanced at her, and couldn't quite stop a wry smile from hitting his lips.

"I am still not stalwart and good you would like," he said. They both knew it was true, saying it changed nothing. He was not Othryoneus, never would be. "But you have the most irritating way of influencing what I do when I'm around you. I'd appreciate it if you'd stop that."

The tone was dry, and his touch gentle as he placed his hand on top of hers.