[ it doesn't take long to collect himself, to thaw somewhat— but it does take a little exhale, a tiny sigh escaping his lips as he tries to divert some modicum of suspicion from himself. that was too rash, he tells himself. too overt, too emotional. ]
Do you require my expertise? [ curious and impatient all at once, the unspoken question being "why?" what is she planning? why does she wish to observe him? it all bothers him. ]