Jasper struggled to find words, helpless as he watched Bianca hurry out in a rush of nervous energy. The tea was a welcome distraction when she returned. It at least gave him something to do with his hands and allowed him to sit again so it didn't seem like he was looming.
"Oh no, it's not bad or anything," Jasper rushed to reassure Bianca after a blowing a little on his tea to cool it. "There's nothing wrong with reading what you enjoy. And I..." He hesitated, staring down into his tea. "I'm familiar with Ms. King's work," he admitted, feeling a little bad for not being entirely honest. But really what would she think of him then, if she found out?