His brows raise higher and higher at her disbelief. "Um..." Was now a bad time to mention a cult upbringing where self interest was frowned upon? Was there a good time?

He gives a quiet laugh and shakes his head. "It was not a priority and...frankly I'm not sure? I suppose the same sorts of things I might want in a friend but...more? I'm not sure I can answer that question. I've never felt anything like that for anyone. I think."

He locates his tea and takes a sip before feeling the need to clarify: "For the record, I'm not exactly a blushing virgin, I've been with people, it's just never been more than for recreation."