The comment nearly passes by, but he catches the implications with a nervous flutter as his eyes snap to hers. The set of his shoulders gradually laxes, and his smile turns more genuine. She's still something of a stranger, but.. she's recognized him, so there's understanding there, now. He can drop the thin veneer of aloof ferryman.

"I like it," he admits freely. "It's pleasant work most of the time. The only thing people want from me is a smooth ride across the river, and I'm more or less qualified for that. And sometimes.. I meet new friends."