How Can I Say No?

"So, would you like to meet Illai, Your Grace?"

Rosalie swiftly rose from her seat and started walking toward the door, throwing that innocent question on the duke, whose joyous expression was now replaced with one of bewilderment. 

"Illai? Pray, who is Illai?"

"That, Your Grace, is the boy's given name. Rather charming, wouldn't you agree?" 

She remarked with a nod, continuing her resolute advance toward the exit. Damien, however, appeared reluctant to follow suit.

Just as she was nearly ready to step beyond the threshold, Rosalie paused, then rotated her entire form, emitting an exasperated sigh that carried a touch of evident theatricality.

"Well, it's not as if he is clamoring to make your acquaintance, I must admit. He seems content with our friendship alone. And I find his constant companionship rather agreeable as well."