Are there better choices? Perhaps.

Does the question offend? No. Ellis' expression doesn't shift, no new tension winds through his body. If anything, it eases the set of his jaw, draws a breath out of him as he settles into his answer.

"I believe we work well together."

All his training, all his travels, has instilled a healthy appreciation in Ellis for a mage capable of slinging spells over his shoulder without obliterating him.

"And I think you understand the importance of discretion."

The latter arguably more important, to Ellis' thinking.