Hyacinthe laughed at that and ducked his head in apology. "Sometimes I prattle on about things I know none here are aware of. After a year, you think I would have learned better."

And since he was already ducking his head, it just seemed an excellent opportunity to kiss her again. She had such sweet lips, made moreso by the drinks he'd mixed for her.

"I speak several tongues," he whispered. "All to excellent effect."