"Yer quite -" He broke off with an almost yelp, practically jumping back from Hattie. His back hit the counter, but he didn't care. His heart was thumping out of his chest and he was just staring wide-eyed at Hattie. That had been far too close. Far, far too close. Even wearing the inhibitor - and a quick check of his ear said it was still there - he didn't want to run the risk.

He cleared his throat. "Quite welcome. We... should get started." What was he supposed to say? Because 'don't touch me' just sounded rude.