[would that the harbinger knew the truth. Zhongli only watches him for a moment, considering him as though trying to figure out if the offer is in earnest. After all, the man has never kept his hands off of him, has he? Not really...]

It would bring me some comfort, truthfully. [He closes his eyes as Childe approaches, not really taking the proffered arm nor actually shying away from it.] Perhaps you could draw it up while I bathe, that we might negotiate properly.

[It's a convenient attempt to save him from dealing with being fucked stupid in the tub after he's finally emptied himself out, too. Whether or not the other takes to it, well... he'll see.]