"I would take no for an answer if it were followed by a sensible reason, but being shy doesn't count." Balthazar makes a face at him, then stifles a laugh at the reaction to the drink.

"Ellen made it. I'm trying to use it sparingly. Now you see why I watered it down. Shall I fetch the honey?" He rises, then pauses to pour Chuck a drink of similarly blended liquor and water, placing it in front of him cheerfully. "Mazel tov."