Ah, an unobservant one. She supposed as much should be expected with his claims. Still, he showed promise with his earnestness. Perhaps he could internalise these lessons and improve by the next ball. She would certainly hope so.
As for his praise… The intonation was fine, the words a bit lacking but they got the point across, she supposed, however… was that all he could come up with? She hummed, shaking her head ever so slightly.
“No. Your words were… well, they would receive a passing grade, I suppose. Still, there is, indeed, room for improvement. I believe an example is in order, ahem,” she cleared her throat. Typically, it would not be her doing the complimenting but she could adapt, especially to protect any future ladies from his clumsy words.
“Though we have only just met, you have shown great selflessness. To, with dignity, protect a lady from the possible dangers of the situation is a noble act indeed. Further, your genuine wish to prevent further miscommunication between yourself and others tells me you must hold a deep care for another’s heart, no matter how clumsy the execution. A fitting image for one with an outfit painted with the purity of white.”
Perhaps the last words were a bit unnecessary. Ah, well. A beat passed before she continued this… lecture? Hm, perhaps an advisory moment would be a better fit. “Even so, your words clearly come from the heart, in that sense, they are quite well made. However…” She tilted her head slightly at him.
“I had let it slide as we had only just met, but… do you typically make no mention of the effort a lady places into her appearance?”
