"Your cakes are marvelous, Wente, absolutely wonderful," Irene assured him, her smile broadening just slightly at how Amaya could use more friendship. She could let Amaya clarify how friendly they were another time, if she wanted, but it still pleased her all the same to know that this enormous, jolly man was and had been looking out for Amaya.

And in the name of cultural integration, and trying everything once --

"And I've been known to hug."