[He makes a show of wincing, though the comment does put a flinch in his chest through his smile.] Ah! A harsh blow, as expected of milord! Your words are sharper than any blade. No wonder you're the Earl and I'm not!

[But there's a chuckle in him yet as he moves to wipe down the table, if for no other reason than to have something to do while he waits for the water to boil.] You could find me no matter where I go, I would bet, but I think we both know you wouldn't have to look far. I have a hard time getting away from you. Must be something from your mother. Was she part magnet, by any chance?