[ Hubert seems very determined to get him to speak, when there is a part of Ferdinand that would rather enjoy the moment. There’s nothing dreadful or looming about Hubert’s presence behind him, but rather comforting, the slide of his fingers through Ferdinand’s hair soothing. ]

There is very little you do not do like a dread shadow, Hubert.

[ A joke, something to keep the silence from stretching to awkward lengths, though it sets Ferdinand’s mind upon a trail of conversation. Whether or not Hubert finds it agreeable remains to be seen. ]

To tell the truth, if someone told me years ago that someday I would enjoy regular teatime with you, and even go so far as to let you do my hair, I would have laughed myself silly.