"Percy darling," Vex says, a little waver in her tone as though she can't quite decide on the note to strike. Should she be sympathetic, gently setting the record straight? Should she laugh it off, as though it's some joke or misunderstanding? Is she stung by the change in his demeanor, so flattering a moment before?

She clears her throat and shifts slightly. Her gaze dropping to her beer before taking a drink.

If anything, her posture turns more conspiratorial.

"You think this is a rejection?" Better. Confident. Understanding. There's no tint of nervous laughter coloring the words this time.