[And this, maybe, is a testament to the time Rufus has already spent at the resort, and the evolution he's gone through himself in the months he's been here — the fact that Rude's refusal doesn't really come as a surprise, and he shakes his head slightly as if to motion for silence, relieving him of the obligation of finishing his stammered sentence.]

That's fine. I won't ask you to.

[But he doesn't step away from the arm around him, either, and surveys the room idly to make sure no one is within earshot to overhear them.]

But I do expect you to sort yourself out, once your registration goes through. Make connections and find someone you can tolerate for it. Understood?