[ His smile increases by just a touch as she says his “name”. He’s honestly a little surprised that she’s still using it since he doubts she hadn’t heard what his “real” one was at this point. He won’t correct her, though. It’s an amusing little habit, and besides, there’s an extra layer of delightful irony considering that name’s usual association. ]

A lie? Goodness, it is nothing of the sort. It is always a pleasure to see you. [ His gaze turns purposefully towards her hands as he looks at her tense knuckles. ] Though clearly, not a sentiment returned. I am hurt.

[ That’s the lie, and it’s obvious with the cloying sweetness of how he says it. And, well. The fact that even with their limited interactions, it’s probably obvious that he’s not a creature that exactly feels “hurt”. Sebastian looks back to her face as he folds his hands neatly and primly behind his back. ]

We have not spoken since our thoughts were forcibly joined. [ As far as she knows, at least. ] How have you been faring?