While not unusual for Soleil to call him out on his....behaviors, there's something more urgent in her expression this time. Like he's stuck his foot in his mouth and she's desperately trying to smooth things over. Laslow tilts his head, grin flickering in confusion.
But before he can interject, Nel replies, amusement clear in her voice, and just like that, all his worries dissipate. Warmth spreads in his chest; he resists the urge to preen at the acknowledgment he's an exception to Nel's rule.
"See? All's well." He can't quite keep the trace of triumph out of his voice.
Clearing his throat, he prepares to extend his little treat, aborting the action when his lovely daughter beats him to the punch. Laslow blinks. The careful flick of the wrist, the way she holds the bouquet just so there's a chance the recipient might brush their fingers together....
No. No, she's just being polite! He always says flowers make the perfect gift! Doesn't even need to be for a special occasion; merely making someone smile is reason enough!
He tunes back into the conversation, chuckling softly at well acquainted, and extends his little treats. A flush dusts his cheeks. "Ahem. For you, Nel! The reason for my initiative," Laslow winks. "They've gone a bit cold, but they were baked this morning."
Free hand rises to absently play with his earring. He's torn--every second spent at his little girl's side is precious, a gift he refuses to ignore. Yet he'd also been looking forward to enjoying Nel's company this evening. Glancing between the two, Laslow sighs.
"Sol, love, are you alright if Nel and I take our leave? I, uh, that is, we--" Naga above, how does one go about a conversation as awkward as this? Shifting his weight, he tries again. "We're going to dinner tonight! I meant my earlier promise, though--you and I will do something special soon! I've missed you."
He drops his hand, reaching over to brush a wayward strand of hair off Soleil's cheek. "Seems I have a lot to catch you up on!"
Grinning, he faces Nel fully. "Shall we, my sweet?"