Chris had been grabbing yet more champagne and also snacks. Old habits died hard. She was, perhaps, slightly tipsy when she returned.

"Oh! Lyall! Gracious, well, fine to see you here, and I do see you've met my great uncle Elian!" she said with a lopsided grin. "How marvelous. Elian, this is my friend Lyall. Champagne?"

She didn't really wait to see if either of them took her up on her offer.