"Well, I can certainly assume that you're on the rougher side of things," Smithson quipped with a raised brow, "Not necessarily in terms of temperament, although I can see that applying to you, since you don't seem like the friendliest individual out there. Something about your appearance suggests to me that you may be a member of the middle class, or perhaps... Someone on the lower side of the socioeconomic spectrum?" He winced slightly and rubbed the back of his neck while glancing off to the side.
If I get this wrong, I really am going to look like a fool...
With a shrug that was totally not meant to deflect his growing hesitation, Smithson added, "It's not like that's really a bad thing, though. I know it sounds weird saying this as a noble, but... Nevertheless, I feel like I can sense something dignified and refined coming from your spirit. And you know what? Good for you. I can't help but admire that, even with your circumstances. At least you have pride in yourself, and that's what matters in a world like this."
Although he initially winced slightly, Smithson's surprise was eventually replaced by a sense of admiration for the other individual.
"So you're a nobleman, huh?" he asked with a small smile forming on his face, "That's always a refreshing sight to see around here. It sounds like such a nice rank to have, to be perfectly honest, as you see, I'm only an aristocrat. I have the money and the influence, but not the royal blood. Although to be fair, there hasn't been a royal official in my region for years..." He teased, "Hey, maybe you could visit there and impose some order in the place. Not that it really needs it, but I think you'd at least like the sophistication that's over there."
Gently laughing off the slight banter, Smithson continued, "Speaking of sophistication... You like wine and social events, huh? You're quite the refined individual, then! I can't help but respect that! To be well-versed in aspects like that is quite the rarity these days. I'd love to know individuals such as yourself better, to be honest. You know what? If you wish, you're welcome to talk with me further over some wine at a party. And no, I don't mean it as a joke this time."
He conveniently forgot to bring up the fact that the noble liked dogs. A lot. Mostly because that reminded Smithson of his son, who also happened to really like dogs. The middle-aged man, feeling a slight pain in his chest, did his best to ignore that feeling of loss, but... His enthusiasm faded slightly as a result of it. Still, the offer was already given, and all he could do is just hope that he wouldn't berate himself for it in hindsight.
- honestly bless you for reviving this thread my dude..... also reading that was super sweet ahhhhhh- I'd love to see them interact more IC. u_u