"That seems like a reasonable bargain," Laurent says, eyes lingering on the Beast. The creature is still monstrous, but Laurent's learning to see that the Beast wants to be human. It's an absurd thing, that this monster has studied languages and read poetry. Laurent wonders how it came about, that some legendary monster should want more than anything to enjoy the trappings of humanity. Including, absurdly, having a human companion to love.

What a poor, deluded creature.

"You first," Laurent says, tensing a little in proximity to the beast. He tries to hide it, but he's much happier when the creature is farther away. Or not in the room at all.