*could almost laugh at that, but doesn't, because now he knows how to breathe around his nerves instead*
*swallows the obvious responses (just fine) (god, no) and meets your gaze and if that doesn't kick him squarely where it hurts* *musters a smile for you, or at least something kinder than a questioning frown* It's... weird. *as the incongruity of that statement hits, flashes a real smile, amused despite himself* I kind of feel like I followed the white rabbit and tripped down the wrong hole? But in a good way. Mostly. (Except you aren't falling with me.)