"I am happy to take responsibility," Combeferre said with a twinkle in his eye. Especially if you always look so lovely when you laugh. He swallowed the words at the last moment. Perhaps he would say so later, if he was feeling bold enough.

He nodded in understanding. "I like the countryside, too, for much the same reason. Stay far enough from the roads, and you really can pretend you're anywhere. Or anywhen." He made a face at his poor joke.