He didn't understand the word phobia, and filed it away to ask Hel later. "I'm sorry," he still offered. "I don't like making people afraid. It's not my job."
He nodded and stayed where he was. He knew enough that reaching out might be problematic. "Well there's plenty around. I'm sure me and Nessie don't mind staying at the counter. And if you want to pay for something you can leave the money on a nearby shelf and we'll get it when you leave. Would that work?"