I admit, I am surprised to hear you say such things. I would think you had no tolerance for arrogance— but I suppose that all depends on perspective. I am used to many considering it to be baseless by default, but as you said, evidence makes all the difference.

[It's interesting, to hear such an approach, especially given the matter-of-fact way she presents it, and his lips curl into a reserved smile of agreement beneath his mask. She is a curious one, a puzzle he is nowhere near solving, and yet he is quite intrigued by each and every piece that presents itself.]

For all the responsibilities and benefits alike that may come with such a station, those who hold them are still people first and foremost. You, too, like your privacy.

[She has made that quite clear, and he can certainly respect it.]

You speak fondly of her.

[Well. As fondly as she ever speaks of anyone, he thinks.]