You’ve spent ample time with them, so I suppose I should trust your word. However... you have ever skewed towards a curmudgeonly disposition. I hope you won’t be too testy if I take your words with a grain of salt.

[He shrugs. He’s set his sights on his goals and won’t be easily deterred. ]

People adapt slowly to change, but I’ve never wanted for patience. It will all turn out well enough!

[He leans over, stands of his hair falling loose and brushing the table ] What are you eating?