The sentiment is appreciated when he is wary of intruding. He remains where he followed his cousin to and closes his eyes as he breathes deeper when the aroma of the cookies is released with the oven opened. Salivating at the scent, he opens his eyes only to smile at the verbal ribbing in an invitation to partake. Walter simply encourages him further, “One or two shouldn’t spoil my dinner, and it would be rude not to accept such a gracious offer.”

For the moment, aware Russell needs a chance to transfer the cookies to a cooling rack, he keeps the presents he brought in his arm. He gives Walter a glance as he joins them, then a second look as he notices him hiding something behind his back with a curious tilt of his head.