"I usually reserve that for really evil types," he replied, "and only if there's no choice." He studied her carefully. "However, I don't mind being a sparring partner." He grinned. "I have a feeling you're used to keeping your punches scaled frustratingly back." He knew that feeling. "Assuming, of course, you can keep up with me." He was sure that Carol was feeling restless and, well, making a new friend would be nice. Y'know. One that was actually interested in being his friend and not word vomitting about his feelings. Not that the person hadn't been nice, but it was kind of hard to forge a friendship when someone spent most of their time talking about someone else.
It's a good thing they weren't on a date. That would've been one terrible date.