The impact of his actions aren't felt until she pulls away and there's only the ghost of her touch remaining around his neck. Anne could teach even him on the art of composure after this display; not that he could blame her for it. What some people may translate as innocent spontaneity took a much more disturbing tone when held against their history, and it's only worse that he revisits the scenario by default when his restless nature starts acting up. Which must be why.

For a moment he'd felt her pulse escalate before her walls were back in place, and that may have been all he was after. He circles around though, lingering in good humor, giving her space as he approaches from her side.

"I've been having the same problem," he starts when it's clear that she has no inclination to say anything more to him. His attitude shifts when he starts, like he's only now becoming aware that he's awake. "The usual fix doesn't seem to be working."