Perhaps, had she not been swimming in the sea of glorious alcoholic relaxation, Thérèse would've blushed and stammered something before making her excuses and going to her room. But as it was, she didn't. She took the comment lightly, enjoyed the light flirtation, and returned his smile, leaning forwards in her chair.
"Throwing down the gauntlet, hm? Well, I accept." She cleared her throat, adopting an expression of thought. "I like your kindness and your generous nature. I like your sense of humour. I like your chivalrous sense. You treat ladies well." She leant back in her seat again and studied his face, taking him in. "I like your voice. It's gentle, and soothing, and the first thing I heard when I arrived. I'll always remember your voice. You were a comfort to me before I'd even climbed out of the carriage." She shifted her position again. "And I like the way you kissed my fingers on the way back from the church. You are so tender." She fell silent then, looking down at her plate before reaching for her glass again. "Those are my thoughts, anyway."