"I'd like to save you from having to trudge through my paperwork if at all possible, it's dreadfully dreary work. Also, unfortunately my hands are tied by procedure. Can't really let you. For which you should be relieved," he grinned. "Although I much appreciate the offer," he added quickly.
He huffed a small laugh, and when he looked back to Mercedes, there was a smile on his lips to match hers, pupils growing wider as he locked his gaze onto her. "Yes, you would. And you're far from foolish, aren't you Mercedes?"
He dropped his gaze very delibrately, bowing his head subtly but extremely significantly. Risking the play, but enjoying the dance throughly.
He reached for her hand, kissing the back of it gently. "You don't have to answer this if it makes you uncomfortable, and I'm probably speaking well out of my turn, but," he said, taking a deep breath, and pitching his voice low before he continued, "Do you play? I know some with our designation don't, and I'd like to know your opinion before I tread where you don't want me to. What would it mean for you if we did?"