"Of course I do," he tells her. Though Darrow itself has encouraged Marius to emerge from his shell more, Kathy has inspired him in even more profound ways. He never thought he could find the kind of light and happiness he aspired to in Paris in this city; Kathy, with her kindness and the many ways she gives him reason to hope, has proven him utterly wrong. And now she's prepared something for his birthday, an event Marius typically avoids dwelling on for all the unpleasant memories it brings; now Kathy is providing him with greater memories.

"Of course I don't mind," he tells her, leaning in and kissing her cheek, squeezing her hand in reassurance. There's something thrilling about having Kathy in his apartment with him; coming home to find her here is perhaps the best part so far of his day. "You are always welcome here, whenever you like or need." He thinks about possibly making a key for her, but he wonders if it is too soon to bring something like that up.

"Especially when what's cooking smells so marvelous," he tells her as they make their way into the kitchen. He stops them when they reach it, turning to pull Kathy in closer and give her a proper kiss.