[ He notes the way her ears lower, and before he can stop himself by telling himself what he is about to do is quite inappropriate, he reaches out to her, one hand moving to lightly touch her ear. It is most certainly of his own making, but it feels to him that a wall separates him from Alkaid and others like her, and he is at a loss for how to rid himself of that separation.

Still, he would have to be entirely blind to fail to notice that she is finding ways to reach him even with that wall in place. She is here, after all, and has not ran away even though part of him still expects that she will.

His expression sobers just a little at the mention of family, but he is quick to cover it up with a smile lest he bring down the mood. ]

Yes, I am certain that is what it is.

[ He walks with her until they reach the dining room and both of them take their seats. He notices how she sits beside him instead of across from him, and again, he offers her a smile. ]

I hope that all is to your liking. If not, I am certain that alternatives can be arranged.