At this, the younger man just smiles. He knows a part of it is deflection, but he really does love complimenting Herbert, telling him how wonderful he is. His lover may not admit it, but he needs that just as much as Alfred does.

"Maybe," he muses in a soft little purr, nuzzling into Herbert's hand, "My family name does come from a line of writers, too. It was the only part of my family I ever felt any kind of connection to. I...I like it, saying these things to you out loud."