[ The offer takes him by surprise, perhaps the most genuine example of it she's seen from him so far. He cocks his head and blinks owlishly, then breaks into a slow, pleased smile. ]

I'd never say no to such pleasant company.

[ Tolerance is one thing. Complicity is another, redolent with delicious possibility. He's always curious about how far anyone is willing to go, if given the opportunity. ]

I thought I might return the favours our neighbours have been bestowing on us.

[ She'll remember the deer. ]