Chéri was used to compliment. Many had thought it to be the way to their heart, to their bed, to their money or to a more peaceful relationship with a feisty enemy with a temper, hence even being called “perfect” did impress them. “You are telling me a very small yet surprising place hadn’t offered you what your hand longed to draw to desperately?” The elegant words were pronounced oddly, which was a testament to how artificial Chéri’s refinement must have been. And hey, at least this time they hadn’t replied with an arrogant remark.

And then came the potentially less comfortable question. Chéri tilted their heads to the side, maybe surprised that the artist hadn’t guessed yet. “At the diamònd ponì, monsieur.” And where else could someone like them be staying? They were now observing with great intent, testing the artist reaction.