[ He has an awareness now that beneath the surface, there's an understanding between them. He can see it in her eyes. He wouldn't insult her by trying insinuate more, drag more out of her now, or even continue to insist that he won't promise the same in return. He's come to understand this much, at least; if he wants someone to trust him enough to call on him and turn to him in need, he has to give a measure of trust in return. ]

Promise, then. You have my word, Hilda the Wonder. And only on rare occasions will I call in the middle of the night. I don't want anything going wrong with your face! A good face, as faces go. Perish the thought.

[ "Beauty sleep" and all that. It's meant to preserve the face in some way, right? He guesses. ]

And if you really insist, then we'll go and find some ice. And chocolate.

[ He grins a little, like it's some secret between them. ]