Re: Vivi/Altair/Open.
"I haven't any yet to speak of," Altair explained. "I feel I've still got a few years to establish myself before I really need to find a wife, and as long as my brothers are unmarried, I am the most undesirable member of my family." This was simply a matter of fact. Altair was unlikely to inherit, after all. He managed an elegant shrug without breaking the rhythm of the dance and added, "If a good opportunity does come along before then, I do intend to take it. I don't expect marriage will change the way I live my life particularly." He didn't intend to fall in love. Emotions left one weak and more easily manipulated.
He was silent for a minute as he contemplated what had led them to this line of conversation and then he sighed. "I do wish you'd at least tell me one way or the other." He knew she wouldn't, but if she ever had the urge to unburden herself, Altair considered himself a rather safe option.