[Thank Nerifes. Senel releases a breath he hadn't entirely realized he was holding - that freedom would be a lifesaver. He could ramble about Shirley for hours, leaving out details like her Ferines heritage if necessary. He nearly runs a hand through his slicked back hair, hastily pulling his hand down at the last minute.

He stares a little longer at the silver wedding ring around his finger than he intended. No matter how often he sees it, some small part of him's in awe every time he remembers that to the outside world, he's married, if only to maintain Chloe's reputation. After Stella, he hadn't considered this. Married life was (supposedly) a long-distant dream that he'd never fulfill. Sure, Shirley had expressed interest in a relationship with him, but she was his baby sister. Marrying her was far beyond his comfort level now, and he wasn't certain if he'd ever fully reciprocate those feelings.

This, though? When he wasn't trying to pretend that he adored gardenias or trying to wrestle cooking duties from the maids? It was... well, it was nice.]

I can work with that. [He gives her a small smile, the embarrassment temporarily forgotten, as he glances towards the door.] Thanks, again. I know... I know I haven't been the best to work with these past couple of weeks.