[He’s always been desperately attuned to body language, but something about vampirism makes it worse — or better, depending on one’s perspective. Something about the Bond, too. Or maybe it’s just Zelda. Either way, he feels hyperaware of her every response to his movements. Part of him painfully wishes to understand why. The rest of him patiently requests that part to shut up.]

[Her question makes him huff out a laugh, anyway. That’s what matters, he thinks, and drums a pattern closer to the beat.]

Because I’m happy to see you.

[Hm. Is that entirely honest? A turn to the swell of the orchestra, and he revises.]

I don’t know if you take enough time to relax. I just know I don’t get to do this sort of thing with you much. Just— [A one-shouldered shrug.] Fun. I’m glad to have the opportunity.