Biffy gave Kitten a playfully reproachful look, as if telling her to listen to her mother. He doubted the dragonet would listen anymore than Lady Prudence might but it was worth the trying.

"Have a care with your cufflinks around that one," he added, nodding between Kitten and Randolph. Though all of his are accounted for, it's not for lack of a serious conversation.

"And I'm your friend and I care for nice things," Biffy said, turning back to Daine. "And I like for you to have nice things. Whatever 'nice' means for you." Clothes made him happy and he thought a good outfit where one was shown off could benefit anyone.

Sipping his tea, Biffy felt far more relaxed than he had since coming downstairs. Now that the formalities were over and they were talking about shopping and fripperies, it all felt so much more settled.