"Then they'll deserve it," Audric answered agreeably, sipping at his own drink, by comparison. After all, he had to be able to walk if the Duke summoned him! He didn't mind poking the Duke a little bit here and there...but he generally didn't make himself into an ass.
At least, he didn't think so. Calent might have his own opinions.
Rosie appeared to set the bowl of stew in front of Audric, her grin becoming somewhat predatory when she noticed the company he was keeping. "Audric Molneux, is that a girl you're sitting with? I never thought I'd see the day!"
"But it isn't her stew I'm eating, is it, Rosie?" he asked with an ear-to-ear grin, continuing their conversation from the bar. Rosie rolled her eyes, as if that meant nothing at all, although she was, obviously, pleased with his continued compliments. "This is Minala. Minala, this is Rosie. She and her husband own the Blue Goose."
"It's a pleasure," Rosie said with a friendly greeting. "Now," she went on pleasantly to Minala, heedless of Audric's over-dramatic groans and protests. "You keep him honest, and don't you let him even think of kissing you until he's put a ring on your finger." Her she looked meaningfully at Audric. "And don't you tell me you can't afford it, Audric!"
"Rosie!" Audric groaned good-naturedly, obviously accustomed to this treatment. "I apologize for Rosie. She thinks the world wouldn't know happiness without her guidance!"
Rosie chortled merrily. "You're damned right they wouldn't! Now, eat your stew. You look like you'd disappear behind a post you're so skinny!"