( the condescension is hardly appreciated nor is the criticism taken with less of the same. it sparks that agitation in him with recrimination and shame. it alights his anger despite the validity of any arguments she makes — and they are valid, but he is hurt and hurting and it is easier to lash out.

his gaze dark and half-baleful, he takes a breath and lets it out. the visible irritation trembling and troubling him quiets. his voice does too, strained only by the high-pitch of sarcasm he injects at turns. ) Well, perhaps I have nothing to say. Perhaps all I desire is space ( he gestures in a wide arc to the room ) and your accusations are hardly conducive to what I need.