Fair point, I suppose. Far be it from me to assume anything about how this blasted world operates.

[ As the current song winds down, an announcement rings out: the next dance is to be the final one before the hologram show. So enjoy it, gala-goers! ]

Well, finally. [ He realizes as soon as he says it how that probably came across. ] Er, I mean... not that I don't enjoy dancing with you, it's just, the holograms, you understand -

[ He cuts himself off, takes a deep breath, and looks up at Raikov. ]

That is - may I have this dance?