Well, when the time is right, would a pint or two last long enough for the telling of it?

( meaning more than anything that she's trying to be friendly. going out drinking with others is the best way she knows to socialise. also, to be fair, it's where the best stories are told. she's smiling again because 'faithful' and 'by my side' are pleasant things to hear; right about now she's missing her own faithful companion. )

That's a good start at least. Is there anyone in your past who could be a namesake?