[Well, he walked right into that. He blinks at him, blinded momentarily by that sunny, sunny expression, but soon slips back into his stoicism. He taps his chin.]

I do have many vying for that spot, but you're the first to ask for it directly. That should be rewarded. Congratulations, you may designate yourself as Astarion's Second Friend.

[Oh, if his companions back home could see him now.]