Courfeyrac attempts to look put out, but Marius knows well enough the familiar twinkle in his eyes by now. He manages to refrain from rolling his own eyes; a talent cultivated from years of observing Combeferre with Courfeyrac. "Courfeyrac," Marius says, trying not to smile at his friend's blatant enthusiasm. "I do know you, after all. You're not so much a patient man, especially when it comes to beautiful women."

As they approach Violet, who walks toward them to meet them halfway, Marius gives in to the urge to smile.

"Of course I'll introduce you," he promises.