[Hatter was smart, albeit oblivious and off-kilter, but he was smart underneath it. He could tell she was clinging to his hands, and he felt like he was one of those bobbing snakes. And Iris was his mouse. Except he wasn't going to eat her, that was a bad thought. He'd just wrap around her instead. No crushing bones. Probably wasn't a comparison he should make out loud right now.]
You're not alone with me. You're going to love it. No one's ever mean to the mad. [Hatter couldn't get eye contact when she closed her eyes. He liked her face though, it was a nice face. Yes, she would be perfect in Wonderland, he wasn't wrong, his gut was right. He could tell from their first conversation, when she understood what he was saying without explanation.] You can stop worrying, you don't have to be afraid. I'll protect you.
[He was a real knight now, he needed the white armor, and he lay a gentle kiss to the knuckles of both her hands where he grasped the.] Come to Wonderland with me, Iris.