"I am," he agrees, granting himself a moment to drain the last of his ale. It's precisely the sort of courage he needs to set the tankard down and slide an arm around her. "And I'd like to continue to enjoy it, if I may."

This entire night has taken a wonderful, surprising turn, and things feel like they're continuing to move in his favor. And why not pursue that? Her interest feels limitless at the moment, even with the way her gaze shifts toward her brother occasionally. He's still occupied with his cards, so far as Percy knows - and his opinion hardly matters anyway, under the circumstances.