[ Baschs soft smile and breathless laugh are too earnest, but then, he’s never actually been good at lying or scheming. ]

Of course you can stay. This place — my home, wherever it is, will always be open to you.

[ He probably shouldn’t mention that it would make him happy. That he’s never taken a pet in all his time here. That he’d thought about that conversation with that student too many times. ]

Like I said, this isn’t wildly different from an aristocratic marriage. I do take it seriously that I have removed other resources and options, and that it’s my duty to care for you. Even if you end up away from me.