[He can sense a certain weight in the question, a certain gravity that pulls it just beyond the level of casual conversation. This is not a question asked only for the sake of politeness. What lends it that weight, however, he cannot be sure. Other than the unwelcome arrival of their old pal the Darkling last month, nothing out of the ordinary has transpired. Their life here is...quiet, in a way he finds he doesn't mind at all. Stable, aside from the fact that it could end at any moment.]

As lovely as ever. She's excited about some new paints that she got. [Nikolai tests his tea with a tentative sip.] Excited to try them out on me, quite possibly.

[Surely alluding to your girlfriend's taste in intimate activities falls somewhere in the realm of tasteful conversation.]

And Jude?

[The ever elusive Jude, whom Alina has met but he has not...]