[He laughs lightly at her, stirring them back to the bench. But he has to walk slowly because of the ball. And so he smiles down at Cornelia, shifting her in his arms so that she might be more comfortable]
What does it look like, Princess? I'm carrying you back to the bench.
[Her legs kicking out only makes him tighten his hold lightly, to make sure she doesn't fall out of his arms. He tries not to laugh again, but his eyes are lighting up with a mischief twinkle again]
I thought this was the way to carry princesses? Would have rather preferred for me to throw you over my shoulder like a potato sack? Because I really don't mind doing that, though I would not be able to see your pretty eyes that way.....
[When he finally gets to the bench, he lays Cornelia on it before taking off his jacket. Folding it neatly, he uses it as a pillow under the purple haired woman's head and finally let himself slide down to the ground, his back leaning against the seat of the bench, at Cornelia's waist level]
When was the last time you ate Cornelia?
[For all his teasing moments ago, his voice is full of concern yet again.]