Astarion's answer is like a story recited third-hand. Parts of it ring true, but there are crucial differences that keep it from being the same as a sentiment plucked forward from the boy Ellis had been once.

There is a shade of difference here. He considers it, looking down into Astarion's face, breath carefully steady under the repositioning of Astarion's hand. Does his palm ever warm? Perhaps not. Ellis considers and discards the question.

"I understand."

Even if Ellis can no longer summon such a desire. However, rather than pick at tender subjects—

"I should leave you, to whatever else occupies your evenings."