[He knows some flowery words isn't going to instantly make her feel better. In fact, he doubts she's going to feel better at all the rest of the night, but he's determined to at least alleviate some of it. Ajax follows her into the kitchen, taking out a mixing bowl, some ingredients, and the proper utensils.

Gently, he directs her over to it, so she's standing in front of the bowl as he presses his chest to her back, arms wrapped around her middle to comfort and also be ready to help and show her how to make it.]

Here, we're going to make something called blini. It's a favorite of mine, too.

[He keeps his tone even and soothing, craning his head forward so he can press the side of it to her own.]

We're just going to mix all of this into this bowl, and stir it until it a nice batter.