[ Ah. Howl smiles at his drink, and then glances up at Matt without lifting his head, looking at him with pale blue eyes behind the curtain of his bangs. ]

...I must admit, I'm intrigued. About the magic, that is. [ That last part is important, but still said in a joking manner. He's trying to say this as gently as he can — ]

As for your feelings, Matt... I'm flattered. I would not have expected it, but I am not offended, or disgusted, or anything like that.

[ There's more to be discussed that that, but Howl wants to put Matt at ease first. ]