He chuckled, taking his time arranging the coffee service on a tray, along with everything else they needed for dessert. He re-entered the living room with the laden tray and set about arranging things. He handed Ella a dessert plate and a linen napkin. "Ladies first!" he nodded toward the bubbling fondue pot and poured her a cup of coffee before taking his own seat next to her on the couch and reaching for his own plate. "I suspect that Valmont only entertains very charming and beautiful women in his home. Further, only the most challenging and intriguing ones are invited to stay for dessert!"