"I'm tall. Why would I need you to be tall?" What was the issue with him being short? He supposed he didn't have Sam's power, but Sam's power had never been the draw anyway. Part of the package and undeniably appealing, but not what really sparked his interest. "I bet you're a good shag. Stop selling yourself short."

He hadn't really meant for that to be an order, but whatever. A very powerful way of affirmation, what was bad about that?

"Bring the main! I don't think Bill here is thrilled with your starter." The waiters were scrambling and Barty looked at Bill again. "I've always been alone. Well. Almost always. I got used to it."