Martin doesn't even realize he's holding his breath as he waits for John's reply to the chosen file; it slips out in a soft, surprised gust when John looks directly at him, this time for more than just a moment.
He takes in the criticisms, such as they are, and shifts his weight from foot to foot while he tries to work out the best response. It's still trickier than he wants it to be, but after a moment he flicks his glance up to John and manages a slightly sheepish, "No, I-I'm fine." He averts his eyes again at once. He doesn't think there's much appeal in coming up with some fake but plausible reason for his state, but simply stating that he's turned on doesn't well suit his character, so to speak.
The trouble (sort of trouble) is, he is turned on, and it's becoming increasingly evident, not exactly helped or concealed by his awkward fidgeting. It feels too soon for this, like he hasn't earned it yet, has hardly even given John a chance to do anything. But it wouldn't be beyond John to simply make him wait regardless.
That would still require acknowledging it directly, and he still isn't sure that's on the table here. He has to say something, but what? He briefly considers something along the lines of How can I make it up to you, and discards it immediately as both a ridiculous cliche and rather presumptuous besides. He flounders for a moment, struggling not to fidget quite so much, to instead be the picture of solid, good behavior.
no subject
He takes in the criticisms, such as they are, and shifts his weight from foot to foot while he tries to work out the best response. It's still trickier than he wants it to be, but after a moment he flicks his glance up to John and manages a slightly sheepish, "No, I-I'm fine." He averts his eyes again at once. He doesn't think there's much appeal in coming up with some fake but plausible reason for his state, but simply stating that he's turned on doesn't well suit his character, so to speak.
The trouble (sort of trouble) is, he is turned on, and it's becoming increasingly evident, not exactly helped or concealed by his awkward fidgeting. It feels too soon for this, like he hasn't earned it yet, has hardly even given John a chance to do anything. But it wouldn't be beyond John to simply make him wait regardless.
That would still require acknowledging it directly, and he still isn't sure that's on the table here. He has to say something, but what? He briefly considers something along the lines of How can I make it up to you, and discards it immediately as both a ridiculous cliche and rather presumptuous besides. He flounders for a moment, struggling not to fidget quite so much, to instead be the picture of solid, good behavior.