*actually, is finding his mood has much improved since this conversation began! isn't that swell?*
*drains the rest of his glass and sets it on the coffee table with a swift, confident motion and sits back again (and generally behaves as though you're telling him anything (her father and I aren't together anymore) he doesn't already know)*
*raising an eyebrow* I'm not certain "happy" is the word I would use. *flatly, gesturing with one flat, open palm (here's how it is:)* Írissë believes marriage makes her happy. It doesn't. Káni believes she doesn't need anyone else to be happy. She may even be right, but she also believes me a better man than I am and she is far too soft-hearted to live by her own rules.
*the look in his eyes piercing, unnerving* If either of them believes that my temperament will be in any way improved by the unwanted presence of a child in my life, she is sorely mistaken. The mere prospect of raising a child is so indescribably revolting to me, it is fortunate for Írissë I do not love her less. *and, as though it logically follows in any way:* Would you care for another drink?