Edward's smile tugged errantly, and there was the briefest shake of his head and chuckle. Whether this was to Carlisle's thoughts or his question, he really didn't let on.

He pulled his hand upward slowly, with over-dramatic sigh.

There was the momentary impulse to demand something, even lightly, like a kiss, for the charge of releasing him. But it came and went as his hands were released from the cloth entirely, still without making his belt groan or snap.

Lazy, mock teasing stayed, even as he stood up straighter. "If you insist."