"If we're all supposed to reach greatness by our twenties, then I may as well pack up my paints now."

Did his mother do this on purpose? Of course she must have thought Benedict might find him handsome (anyone with eyes would find him handsome), but some part of her mother's intuition must have told her that Benedict would feel some sort of attraction.

Maybe it's punishment for not learning how to cook for himself. Or maybe it's a gift.

"Should I get out of your way now? I'm worried even just my presence might somehow mess it all up."