[He gives a little nod as if to say "thank you" and "I know" at the same time. (He's only being honest.) Besides, his thanks is in bending down to kiss her cheek enough, he thinks. Kissing the light blush painting her cheeks.

It suits her well. All that pale white, and then a rush of blood to paint it pink.]

I'm very glad to hear it. Truly. [Beyond words, really. It's... this is a very special time. A special moment. Her name floating away on a lantern, the warmth he felt afterwards. How she looks like a duchess here. How her shoulders are a bit straighter.] And honestly, I feel the same. [He smooths his hand down the fur collar of his coat.] I'm a tad nervous, of course, but I do feel like... tonight will make a difference. For the better. Not only because of me, of course, but this whole meeting of the minds. [He smiles, offering to take her hand.] And being here, with you. It's the closest we've come to a proper banquet.