[Embarrassment is a more reassuring reaction than panic. Paul lets out an exhale that's longer than it needs to be as he settles into the cushions, shaking his head even though Oscar won't be able to see it.]
You didn't say anything to be ashamed of.
[Upsetting things, with worse implications, but not shameful, even if prickling afterimage spice empathy blends with the natural human tendency to pick up on nearby embarrassment as one's own.
(If this is the kind of thing Oscar usually feels, it's no wonder he seems so stressed. It's pleasant for an evening in mostly happy company, but he wouldn't want to keep it.)]
no subject
You didn't say anything to be ashamed of.
[Upsetting things, with worse implications, but not shameful, even if prickling afterimage spice empathy blends with the natural human tendency to pick up on nearby embarrassment as one's own.
(If this is the kind of thing Oscar usually feels, it's no wonder he seems so stressed. It's pleasant for an evening in mostly happy company, but he wouldn't want to keep it.)]
...who did you think I was?