Finally, the Count's long locks are softening up - his work is paying off in the form of smooth dark hair running against Alfred's long fingers, the dust and cobwebs swept neatly out by the brush, by the careful attentions of gentle hands.

He smiles, fondly, nodding a little.

"...I love the roses," he affirms, voice soft. "I'm - well, I'm used to not having much. Traveling with the Professor, I had...well, I had two sets of clothing and little else. I never want you to think I'm ungrateful for...well, for anything here. You have given me a home. That's - that's more than I could have ever asked for."

A beat, and then, deciding to meet Georg in the middle -

"I will never turn down a book recommendation, though."