"Yes yes, of course," Tarantulas says dismissively. "We have a totally platonic partnership, I understand how it works." He smirks, eyes and teeth glittering. "I may not know much about how to be friendly, but I do remember what it means to have a friend."

After a moment, he adds contemplatively, "We'll still have to share a bedroom though, unless you'd prefer to sleep by the stove in the kitchen. I'll build up a fire either way."