At James' smirk, Mao's worried expression bloomed into an elated smile. Shameless, really. He somehow managed to tone it down, nodding at the self defense remark. "Exactly. No court would convict us."
The prospect of their friendship being patched up made it impossible for Mao to be properly intimidated by Mrs. Walker. He felt a kind of giddy relief and wild hope, when he tried to look grim and remorseful when he was being scolded, he just couldn't do it. His frown and furrowed brows were comically insincere.
Somehow he found Mrs. Walker's usage of the word 'whilst' ridiculously funny. He let out a muffled snort, then bit his lip and began to nod in 'great seriousness' at the rest of her speech. But man. Haha...Whilst!
Questions? "No Ma'am. Sorry Ma'am." If Mao wasn't careful he was going to end up with one of those clacky heels smacking him upside the head.