[ Now he laughs. She reminds him of Alina all over again. She’s perceptive, and blunt. The bluntness is charming, in a way, because she’s right. It’s not really natural for him to give anyone a straight answer. Force of habit. He looks at her for a moment, a smile threatening. ]

I do have excellent moisturiser. A shame I can’t get my hands on it here. Six months will pass and my good looks will have faded to dust. It’s lucky you like me for my personality.

[ A beat, then, and the smile gets easier. More natural, slightly crooked. Not so cocky. ]

I’m twenty-two. Now don’t pull your punches. Is that younger than you thought?