I will, as a gentleman, of course entirely deny anything untoward in my offer.

[But, of course, it was definitely his way of steering her to a more private location and with her arm linked through his he does just that, taking her from the main area of the intercessory and into a small, and certainly warmer room off to one side. This room, used mostly for more private and intimate meetings between higher-ups, is something he clearly thought of ahead of time as the fire in here is built up as well.

With the weather of these lands being so cruel and biting these days, a good fire can often feel like the most welcome thing in the world.

When the door is closed he's quick to pull her to him, hugging her close with far more open fondness and concern than he would have when they were in danger of being walked in on. More for her than for himself.]

Something essential is truly missing from my life whenever you are gone from my side. [He tells her with utter adoration, allowing her just enough movement so she can look up at him.] I missed you terribly.