"Did I sound as if I disapproved, cariño?" asks Aramis, but he relents, gazing at Porthos' studious face with fondness. It is rare that the man has patience for anything other than yoga or cooking, and Aramis means to indulge him.

"What are some particular phrases you wish to learn?" he prompts, wishing he could caress Porthos' red cheeks. "Or subjects."