[ He doesn't move to take what's offered to him, not right away. No, for a moment or two, he simply allows her to hold them out, as if expecting her to change her mind or draw away the moment he reaches for them. If Nigel had a better understanding of human emotion outside of himself, he would probably be better equipped to acknowledge Rosella's embarrassment. But he's not, so instead he simply watches her, inclining his head slightly in acknowledgment as he finally reaches to take the small gift. ]

Apologies aren't necessary, [ he says evenly. ] You were startled and perhaps I'm not as you imagined me to be. [ Nigel looks down at the cookies that she's given him; again, thinks of mother and continues to smile in that elusive way. ]

Are you always so generous? [ His toes curl in the snow. ]