"It was considered outrageous when I resigned my spiritual duties," he muses. "A cardinal's hat is for life, you know. Much like a grave offender's sentence, nevermind the annual income." He grins, propping his chin on a hand. "But I, a shepherd of souls? Prego. It went hard on me, much as I tried for meekness." Theatrical little sigh.
Ohhh smooth. How smooth you are. Er, I'll thank you to shut up, my love. Simply don't mind me. Miquel finds an empty seat close to Victoria and studies her. Pretty. Just so you know, there are these magic people, remember them?, Cesare snaps silently. They're not stupid. Don't let me disturb you, your Excellency.
She shifts her legs, all willowy grace, and Cesare lowers his eyes. "Do you live far from here?"