She didn't seem angry with him, and she hadn't burst into tears yet. Alfred was rather relieved; he'd been bracing himself for one of those two possibilities when she'd asked about other girls, especially since he'd made such a mess of the answer. Her response made it clear that she'd dropped the subject, for which he was grateful — but it also sent a little pang through him. She just seemed so sad. He knew that the best thing he could do for her ultimately was to let her be heartbroken tonight in the hopes of healing tomorrow, but despite his better judgement, he found himself reaching back out for her all the same.

"Sure you can," he agreed softly. He put his hands on her waist and drew her closer until he could wrap his arms around her middle. "So long as you can promise me something first. After I leave, you have to promise not to wander off at parties and end up alone with strange men," he teased; his tone was light enough but he was hoping perhaps she'd take the advice to heart. "Even if you like them."