[He drops Francels hand, but immediately leans forward over the table, wiping Francels cheeks with this thumb. ]

I suppose I have been acting strangely. It would be stranger for you not to doubt my motives. I admit I don't fully understand them myself yet. Though I have given permission to just go and live a bit on my own terms... And to seek the things I want for myself.

[his hand sinks and he folds them on the table. He looks at them for a moment. ] I suppose it is true that I can court anyone I want. And that's the beauty of it- you're the youngest man of the high house of Haillenarte. While I may outrank you, I'm hardly of noble birth like you.

I will earn your trust, don't worry terribly about producing it for me.