It was hardly surprising that Laurent would have delighted in getting under Damen's skin, in shaking him in any way whatsoever. There was little reason for Damen to think Laurent had any interest in him then apart from his usefulness.

But he found himself hoping all the same for whatever difference it made.

He arched an eyebrow as Laurent refilled his glass before resuming his position on the chaise. Damen only looked for a long moment and knew the warmth in his blood was only partially due to the wine. He took another sip of his own wine, nearly finishing the second glass before he leaned over to rest it on the table and then shifted closer on the chaise, close enough that his knee bumped Laurent's lightly.

'We sat closer in that tavern,' Damen said as he reached to offer the chocolate, slightly softened now, to Laurent's waiting mouth.