"Oh don't you worry," Jack said, somewhat distracted, "I'm sure I can make it up to him."

He laughed again, and as he stepped over with her hand in his.

"Firm too," he said, deliberately twisting her words. "And really, can't a guy give a compliment these days?" He shot her a wink as he came to stand in front of the couple.

"Ahh the Marquis of Pompadour!" he said, overly amused. "A pair of Pompadours!"

The woman gave a look at Reinette, appraising. She didn't look too impressed.

Jack turned his head to the man beside the woman. He wore a military coat of the age, blue with a strange striped pattern about it.

"And who are you supposed to be?"