[ He looks less keen-eyed than he is, while he watches—interested most of all in how careful she is with it. How comfortable he would be letting her take it out of his sight. He’s considering it. So far, it’s likely. ]

You are used to fewer strings? [ If the fingerboard of her guitar is smaller, ] Maybe you would feel more at home on a mandolin.

[ He comes closer. ]

Has it been a hobby or a profession, for you?