[ He was curious enough about her based on her enthusiasm alone; like understanding like, on some level. But her words intrigue him further. Oblique to some, perhaps, but not the Doctor. He'd thought to go along with her not only because the fidgeting and inability to sit still is in his nature, but because it seemed a good distraction until they reach Cadens.

But when she softens and speaks of Simon, the Doctor's expression shifts. Less the enthusiastic merry-maker, he's now the more attentive and slightly concerned self-appointed guardian. Of sorts. Temporarily. ]

If you wish you could see him, he must be very important. Do you know — I've found sometimes that when the people I love aren't with me, if I talk about them, I can see them again for a moment. And so can others. Would you tell me about Simon? I'd like to see him, too.