Andrew gave a grunt, then said, "Tis fine gravy." It was a lie.

He looked her in the eye finally and said, "Kin I ask ye a question?" He paused, gave her enough time to respond. The outcome either way was the question, whether she gave permission or not. "Are ye truly ready ta have a bairn, lass? I feel like I'm pushin ye into things fast and maybe I am bein' too hard on ye."