Andrew was allowing himself to relax as much as he ever did here. He could leave security to someone else for a bit and just enjoy himself. That coy little bit about using her mouth was going to get him some harassment from Audric later, but he considered it well worth it, and besides, he didn’t have any room to complain. Not after all those notes he had sent with her flowers, about one “crazy night” or another. And back then, they had only been friends.
There was commotion all about them, but the quiet was a cue of its own. Andrew was focused on Melisande, but as she had so often noted, much of how he reacted was ingrained and he was accustomed to listening to those instincts that most of humanity was taught to ignore. It gave them less warning than he’d have liked, but at least it was enough that he didn’t try and kiss her again. This was not his Queen, but diplomacy and common courtesy dictated he show her no less respect for that fact. Especially if Melisande meant to spend a lifetime or two in these lands.
He noted that he was not similarly greeted, or even acknowledged, but he took no offense. His steadying arm was granted to Melisande before a proper bow could be executed. Everything Andrew did was fluid and precise, with the sort of predatory grace that even most Sidhe could envy. Well, if he was to be just another ornament, it suited him well enough, and he at least made a handsome one. He did spare a glance to see if Mikino would be bailing them out of this little drama anytime soon, but he was engaged in conversation with the Chaldean still.