[It might not have been a surprise that Leslie would want to stay, but the force of her affirmation is. After a shocked beat, Hubert nods, forcing his hand to fold over his heart and bow in acceptance.]

Very well. You are welcome as long as you wish to be. Lady Edelgard need not be here for you to continue being her ward.

[After all, she'd offer the girl her name. But it's a rote offering; this last year had brought Hubert and Leslie closer on their own terms... even if he would continue to lay credit at Edelgard's feet at every opportunity.]

[Straightening, tucking his hands behind his back once more, he finds himself at a bit of a loss for words. He never did console much, and his own state did not contribute. What now?] I... regret to have upset you this evening.