"Not while she is in earshot," Stas replied with his impish grin.

"You are not to tell anyone that I am an honorable man. I would hate it to ruin my reputation." Then he beamed at her and tried not to get too sentimental. "You can always send Milo my way if you need an escort. I do not mind a bit of company while smoking."

He offered her a sidelong frown as they arrived at the edge of campus. "There is only one department in which I need help."