The look Gabe returned Skulduggery was genuinely innocent in that way that said he really wasn't doing anything, but it didn't conceal the amusement in his eyes which proved that he wasn't exactly oblivious about the undertone.

"Leadin' by example's still teachin', pardner," he said with a shrug, shoving his hat back. "Good thing it's always in season."

Des wasn't the only one getting the same impression of the two, either, though Melissa was also observant enough to notice Mr Pleasant's momentary scowl. Not that she mentioned it, of course. Maybe someone had given them some hassle about it. "Just what a woman always wants," she said in tones of agreement, "knowing that her daughter will grow up being able to emasculate men." She grinned at Valkyrie. "Good girl."