[ He should pay closer attention to his nose. No, rather, he should quit second guessing his nose. He hadn't wanted to fumble things with her, but her question makes it clear that he has. Asil had scented her pleasure each time he'd offered his hand - to help her balance in the thick of the woods, but also tonight where there was no reason she might trip over the flooring of Bran's home.

Still, he's kept her words from a week ago at the fore of his thoughts. She'd been pursued for the sake of the pursuit, for competition. He does not wish to give her the impression that he would do the same - but he does not wish to scare her off either. His wolf does not see the pups in Aspen Creaak as competition. Part of it is vanity, another part is arrogance.

He takes moves his free hand up over the table, so that he ends up cradling her one in both of his. ]

I am out of practice in the dance of courtship. You may have to bear with me.

[ --And then he presses a lingering kiss over her knuckles. He breathes in the scent of her skin. Of the faint whiff of his roses.

Eun is attractive and intelligent and has been bothering his dreams of late. It has left him off balance. ]

I am very attracted to you. I also wish to respect your independent streak.

[ He leans back, but his hands stay cupping hers. ] That and I am not sure how you might feel about much older men.