Admittedly, Fallon was a tad disappointed he wouldn't be joining them on her actual birthday. Jesse meant more to her than he likely realized, so not spending special days or holidays with him left something of a sore spot on her heart. But, it was to be expected, she supposed. They had only been together a short while, after all, and without any form of public declaration their opportunities to invite others into their happy bubble were limited. Fallon knew she wished to marry him, her hopes spanning as far as a proposal before the new year, but reality was a strong force to reckon with. In fact, reality had made it that she wasn't even sure if she would be home in time for Christmas.

That was a topic she wouldn't address tonight, though. She refused to spoil such a wonderful birthday surprise with tension.

She laughed at the mention of his cook knowing about his affection. "Do you think she'll tell your Mum? She does still need to learn of your secret crush." It was how their relationship began, wasn't it? A hidden romance, an excuse to use to hide from his mother's matchmaking tendencies. Suddenly, and for the first time since meeting Jesse, Fallon found herself wondering if she would be up to par with Mrs. Hatchitt's expectations. A dangerous profession like hers was hardly something to boast about, especially when considering how staunchly she would argue against leaving her office. Perhaps she wasn't enough, what then? Would he choose his family's values over her?

Merlin, Fallon hoped not.

His question allowed her to refocus on remaining upbeat for the evening. There were still so many kinks to work out in their relationship and none of them were to be solved tonight. "We were," she replied with a nod. "From day one. We met on the boats and became dormmates soon after. She's more like family than a friend, Merlin knows I talk to and trust her more than my siblings."