[ She laughs softly again at the display, and then nods. ]

It is the only thing I could think of that he loves and is proud of that casts no bitter shadows.

[ Or, if it does, she thinks it casts the least. ]

Does he play solo for anyone outside of taverns and dances? I should love dearly to play all of us together, but I think he deserves a chance to show off as well, no? If he wishes? Something besides jigs and lively waltzes.

[ It's awfully tender, that small smile. She looks down to attempt a minor reconstruction of the mess she'd made of her tart. ]

And, selfishly, I should like to hear it.