[ It's plainly obvious that she's stalling, and he feels something in his chest sink as he watches her. His ears drift back ever so slightly, but he forces them to stand upright before she can turn to see. ]

'Tis no burden that needs fixing, Ms. Vaux, but it is something I wish to handle with care. I do like you. I find you a remarkable woman, one whom I would love to speak to more, to learn from, and about, but I dare not ask you for more than you are willing to give.