[When her entertainer's mask fell with the curtain, it revealed concern and, inexplicably, guilt waiting under the surface, ready to manifest if he should blame her. The apparent absence of disgust, fear, or horror stunned him into immobility. He couldn't even stop her gloved hand from making contact with his cheek, could only pull away from her touch after the damage was already done. He backed up a couple of steps, holding his hands out in front of him as if warding her off.]

No, no! It's fine. I'm fine. This is just... [He worried his lip with his teeth, unintentionally showing off a hint of fang. Then he forced an awkward, pained looking smile.] It's just a trick. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have used you that way. I've just...been working on that one a while and saw the opportunity, and I...uh, took it.

[He held his breath as he waited to see if she would buy it. He was blissfully unaware of the numerous, obvious tells he was probably giving off to anyone who knew how to look for them, including the irritated flicking of the spade at the tip of his tail.]