[Maxima will accept his drink as it arrives, sipping from it in an effort to hide that he's blushing again, aware that his too-expressive ears are probably giving away his mood and how attentively he's listening no matter what he might do to hide it.]

...Meropide provides a chance to put theories into practice. A place where people are free to live in community, contributing what and when they can, without being judged or forced into anything...it's something my old friends would have dreamed of. If the skills I've learned over the years can help it thrive, then I'm glad to put them to use.

[He raises an eyebrow at Lighter, gaze scanning him up and down.]

...We haven't known each other long, it's true, but you don't strike me as the type to take on truly unsavory work. I've seen enough to know how wide the gap can be between 'illegal' and 'immoral'.