[ His nod is quick, eyebrows pinched together, an easy please and absolutely yes. ]

It's how I think of me.

[ But while he's chewing his first bite of bacon sandwich (and getting crumbs on his bed, like an animal, but it's better than rearranging his furniture to make a breakfast nook in this state) he eyes Byerly's face and looks a little more thoughtful. ]

Or I suppose— [ after he's swallowed ] —if you like it, and you are very sure we are alone. I mean, checking-under-the-bed sure. I don't mind. You can call me Laith if you want, and I'll call you... [ He was sincere before; now there's a mischievous crinkle. ] ... sweetcheeks.