This is my friend, Jesper, he rehearses in his head, only half listening to Elrond's reply. Except Jesper, possessing his own free will and then some, crumples up the script by cutting in. This leaves a flustered Wilhelm to bury his awkwardness in the task of pulling off his gloves and unbundling himself from his coat and scarf — and to pretend he hasn't noticed the amusement brightening Elrond's eyes.

"My roommate, Elrond," he supplies, sweeping a broad gesture between the two as a means of introduction.