“Not just yet,” you say. “I’m sorry. There are other guests I need to attend to.”

Still grinning, he taps his nose twice, the signal of a spy or bard in the know. “Of course. Who am I to think I deserve all of the good Lord’s attention?” He rests his elbows on the balcony overlook. “I’ll be here when you’re done playing gracious host, should you like to reconsider taking me up on the offer.”