[ He’s relieved when Catherine pulls away, even though fiddling with his robot stuff seems to be a distraction for her that makes the conversation less uncomfortable. To Simon the proximity is awkward after that conversation, and his gaze only lands on her for a second at a time. That was closer to Hulking out than he thought Catherine capable of. ]

I only did it once, on the last mission, and it’s still kind of freaky. I’m not planning on making it a habit. [ His voice is a little less animated now, posture stiff. He has ruined the atmosphere to no benefit at all and has Regrets. He is, at least, glad it’s only been a few days for her, because it would suck if she’d waited as long as he has to reunite. She’d be even more pissed and disappointed. He only half-hears what she’s saying about his physical condition, but at fine so whatever. ]

I think we just contaminated the Vulphytes’ water supply, but... thanks. [ the thanks is sincere, and he looks at her to say it; the rest is a halfhearted attempt at a joke... which might be true... oops. ]