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Ben could honestly say that Eris had set a new record for him: this was the fastest time he had regretted engaging with someone. He couldn't decide which moment he disliked more and appreciated none of it. He was honestly more annoyed than bothered, but there was the satisfaction of knowing he must have touched a nerve with the actor to have so much effort spent on him. He would have to address the issue of who Lilie chose to confide in sooner than later, but he had to admit there was the strangest eagerness to continue this asinine conversation. Now to properly dissect the messy yet charming insult. 

Ben started with, [color=c0c0c0]"Your concern is appreciated but unneeded. The relationship between Miss Dionne and myself is a positive one, so you needn't worry yourself unless you're trying to tell me you've taken an interest,"[/color] He said calmly. [color=c0c0c0]"I can't say I'm entirely surprised with your interest in fornication, I'm sure sleeping your way to the top is common in your industry."[/color]  

Seeing as he very much believed in tit-for-tat and utilizing what little information he had, he continued, [color=c0c0c0]"But how rude of me, you went out of your way to ask how I was, and I didn't get to ask the same. Forgive me, truly, you have my humblest apologies. It must be so difficult to have absolutely no respect from your own mage."[/color] He distinctly remembered Mr. Alderman's bare interactions with the actor whenever he did see the pair together. [color=c0c0c0]"Think he'll tank the practical out of spite? I would like to think he cares about his grades, but you have to admit, this is a prime opportunity for him to enact any sense of vengeance and exercise what little power he has over you. You must have been quaking in your boots when you first heard about all this...but judging by the absolutely defeated expression you bore on the bus ride here, I'd wager you had a good cry in the shower instead."[/color]

He reached over and gave him a reassuring pat along with a smile. [color=c0c0c0]"You have my sincerest condolences. How are you feeling?"[/color] He asked.