"Oh," He nearly let out a defeated sigh, but managed to disguise it with a cough instead, "I... I see. That's a bit of a surprise, darling." Barnabas reached for her to hold her close - partly so that she couldn't see the panic in his face and partly because he liked how soft and warm she was. She hadn't expanded on it overly much which made it very clear to him - it was not up for discussion. Very well. He would concede with this. Hopefully down the road - for marriage was a very long road - she would concede in something for him.

"I'll do whatever makes you happy," He said against her hair, squeezing his eyes shut in a wince as if someone had kicked him between the legs.