[ Once, Charles would have joined them. He'd loved a good party, back when he was getting his doctorate. He'd even dared to dance a couple of times, though he'd mostly just embarrassed himself. ]

I was born with a tragic lack of rhythm, unfortunately.

[ He takes the sting out of the rejection with a smile, amused and self-deprecating. ]

I prefer to just be on the sidelines, these days. Besides, this way I have quick access to the tea cart. [ The man's standing behind him, so Charles has to turn his head to study him, thoughtful. ] Have you just arrived, or have you been here for a while? You seem very comfortable with your surroundings.