#(dodged giving a proper response as long as possible agdgd SIR)

[theaterism]

mr nathaniel did u enjoy any of the guest magician's tricks? <3 (hi im so sorry CHDUSV)

honesty asks - accepting

A hissed breath escaped Nathaniel through gritted teeth. He couldn’t allow the question to get on his nerves, though; that would only suggest weakness (and he refused to show weakness in response to that magician). With a steadying inhale, he leaned back in his armchair, a hard glint in his eyes and an edge to his tone. “I wouldn’t have hired him unless I thought he possessed some shred of talent.”

As much as he loathed to admit it, he had read the praise critics had expressed about the magician’s tricks. It had attracted Nathaniel’s attention in the first place. He only hired the best entertainment for his parties: those who showed the most talent, the most flair, the most skill in captivating an audience. And the magician… had met such standards.

Nathaniel didn’t want to continue, but he hadn’t truly answered the question, and the need for honesty tugged words from his throat. Still, he had enough stubborn pride to control his response for a short while longer. “Stuffing flowers in my pockets was amateurish,” he muttered. “It got a laugh or two, yes, but I imagine any fool of a magician could manage it.” Nathaniel couldn’t explain how the magician had performed the trick, but that was beside the point. “I could also name several guests at that party who deserved humiliation much more than I did, none of whom were the ones paying for that man’s show.”

Still not a proper answer. He gritted his teeth once more, but the words slipped out in spite of himself. “The… little fireworks, over the champagne. Those, I suppose, were more enjoyable.” A sharp inhale, and Nathaniel brushed imaginary lint from his sleeves, his tone breezy as he switched tactics and pushed the focus away from himself. “Cerise found it somewhat entertaining, at least, which was rather impressive since she despises most magic.” This sounded too close to a compliment. His eyes narrowed, and he clicked his tongue. “Doesn’t negate the fact he’s a bloody thief, of course, but he does know his trade.”