[ the fact that she isn't worried, despite his prior injunction (or the implication of one), seems to give him more comfort than alarm. he liked the way she didn't display any semblance of fear with him. though, he presumed that may just have been because they were alike in some ways. whether it's the unorthodox lives they both led, or otherwise.

his gaze softens slightly. it's subtle as he studies the way she tilts her head, or stands her ground at his front door.

he wonders what she's thinking of at a time like this.

his fingers flex instinctively, before she actually reaches out. there's a small nod of his chin, as if to confirm that the contact and warmth shared between their fingertips was more than permissible. his thumb brushes over the back of her hand as he pulls her in. ] Shouldn't you know the answer to that?

[ it's not any real answer, at all. ]

You've been quite chatty with Mephisto. [ ... ] So I figured itwas the perfect time for an upgrade.

[ he starts off... don't make him mimic you, lapis. ]