He liked cooking, back home, the way simple flavors could take him back to simpler times. Perfecting the skill fell by the wayside in war; it's only here that he's been able to really dig into it. To learn how to balance delicate flavors, to find more joy in cooking for people.

To make something with his hands, a labor of love, instead of hurting anyone.

Perhaps that's why he holds his breath just the tiniest bit when Levi tries the first tart, watching him without trying to stare obviously. He knows apples are a favorite of Levi's; the variety here has been a treat to experiment with. He wanted to capture the sharp taste without overloading it with sugar, and keep it crisp; not bake the slices into mush the way older apples might be used back home.

Jean lets out his breath only when Levi speaks, a small smile on his lips. High praise indeed. The next comment earns another chuckle from him.

"I'll keep that in mind. I can't take much more sugar out of the pastry, but I don't need much in the filling," he comments, still grinning.