[ Well, the sight of Ange pouting and blushing in the face of genuine warmth is enough to draw a giggle from Beatrice. She smiles, smug in her small victory, and leans back to sip her tea. ]

You're family. I'm allowed to celebrate the happiness of my family on a day so dear to them, aren't I?

[ Okay, that might have been too much of a tease. Reel it in. ]

Besides, Battler has gotten to see you happy and content. That alone is enough reason for me, when we should by all rights have already exited the story.