[He shrugs, a simple enough gesture, and the blush on Vincent pulls at heartstrings.] That would be for you to decide. We've been civil enough all this time and I don't expect that to change, though if it makes you happy, we can both call ourselves terrible fathers and be at peace.

[Another jest. His grin softens when Vincent moves close and kisses his cheek, and he could have sworn his heart skipped a beat. It's enough of a change from what they normally do that the surprise takes him a moment to recover from.]

Me? I'm fine, thank you, but I'll be glad to join you for a cup of tea, if you don't mind. [Before he stands, he reaches back behind him for the brush, intent on putting it back on his way downstairs after the Earl.] And thank you again for helping me with this mess of hair on my head.