[ Seated like this, he'd only have to inch sideways half a foot or so for their shoulders to touch. It's a comfortable sort of proximity, however, so he stays where he is, glancing sideways at Claude while he answers his question with his usual carefulness. There's nothing cryptic about it, no, but there's something quite tactful and pleasant about the way he chooses his words and for some reason, it makes it easier to simply accept them at face value.

At Claude's last words, however, he does pause. Watches him for a long moment, eyes narrowing very slightly. He can certainly understand being the better pick - after all, he's got plenty of money, plenty of power and decent enough looks to match - but gratefulness is an odd concept even at the best of times and in this particular context? Gaze searching the other man's face for a moment, he realises a bit belatedly that he doesn't know what to look for. ]

You had an opportunity and seized it. [ Spoken somewhat neutrally, his tone perhaps a bit too flat even by his standards. Hard to say why - doesn't matter, either. ] I suppose you could thank yourself for taking what's on offer but really, isn't it simply human nature?

[ It's a harsh response to a simple expression and he smiles very lightly, softening his voice with an effort. ]

It's good to know. That you're satisfied with our arrangement.