[Gregor laughs, the sound soft in his throat, and he doesn't take his hand back immediately.]

In my experience, when Betans come into hard contact with Barrayaran politics, it's usually Barrayaran politics that come out worse for wear. I do not, perhaps, have the best control sample for this, however. [He tilts his head in half a nod.]

I'm... glad also, Bel. I feel like I should be thanking you.