[A floral, luxurious scent lingers about Rip even after he walks those few steps away. It's in the moments between explanations and theories that he realizes it's the fragrance of Peggy's perfume, caught no doubt when he'd stooped over to point out a phrase in the book she still holds. The same fragrance he'd caught scent of during their dance the weekend prior, even if her lipstick hadn't been that signature shade of red she wears now, and that Rip has seen her wear during almost all of their encounters.

The shade he scrubs off his crystal once she's left each Wednesday night--or Thursday morning, as the case had been that once.]

You should bring them at some point in the future regardless. A bit of collaboration could likely do some good. [Particularly since now is as good a time as any to take back up the cause. There's been little done that he's heard of since the disaster Peggy herself nearly asks about--and with the controversy caused, it's not really a surprise.

Though quite unfortunate.]

But I've interrupted you, haven't I? [He assumes from the look on her face, the way she's got her finger pressed to some unseen point on the pages. Now at last Rip takes his seat, and with it, another sip of whiskey. He's drinking less tonight, notably.

If they are to be committed to work this evening, then so be it. A little less pleasure, in exchange for a touch more productivity.]

Go on.