[ The history between them is complicated, and so is the history between their families. But like so much else, that's all in the past. He is far more concerned with being of worth to her and to the Empire than he is with measuring himself against her worth.

And if there is one area in which he can demonstrate his worth, it certainly would be serving her tea. He places the saucers and teacups carefully, yet with a quickness that reflects years of practice. And in a show of providence, he's even selected a tea made with some sort of citrus fruit native to the planet. It's not quite Bergamot, but it's not far off, either.

He takes his seat at the table, expecting that she'll sit across from him. It really is nice to be able to share a quiet moment with her like this without having to worry about the affairs of state, but there are still important matters to discuss. ]

I have run into a few of our old classmates and professors. I've met the Professor, but... something was different. Almost as if he hardly recognized me. I also happened to run into Manuela while I was on my way to purchase this tea. And speaking of which...

[ He pours her cup first, then his. Thankfully, she lives close enough to him that he didn't need to worry about heating the water after he arrived. ]

Please, tell me what you think. It's not quite what we would be used to back home, but I find it has a familiar flavor.