"Oh, really." Sereda's not a fool; she heard the change of words, but she isn't about to press him right now. "Wynne's a brilliant lady," she says instead, still smiling, though it's far gentler now. There are times she needs gentleness; to be held and gazed at like this, like she's the most beautiful thing in the world. Though she has to fight to keep her mind in proper places as his breath tickles the flesh at the nape of her neck.
"Your friend said you were lonely," she finally manages, not letting go of him. She's not going to let go of him for some time, unless he demands it.