[Even if it's a little rambly, Kadoc is interested, attentive—a little embarrassed, because it feels like being indirectly caught out. Aiming himself right at the top despite how low he is has absolutely been a problem in his life, and he's been gunshy plenty of times about "embarrassing" himself by publicly doing anything he's not already skilled at . . . Monika is right, but it's a mental hurdle he's not over yet.]

You keep pretty busy, huh? I'm the same way, so that's not meant to call you out. I'm pretty crappy at relaxing myself. Honestly, this'll be one of the first times I've done anything social like this since getting here, and I've been here six months. So it's probably about time to start forcing myself out on a limb . . . even if it's just drinks and not writing poetry.

I'm looking forward to it too.

[He is, despite his anxiety over it. She's interesting to talk to. He couldn't possibly ask for better than that to spend an evening with.]

So whenever you're open, I'll make time.