[He laughs again, that same breathy rasp as before, though lighter this time. For all he knows, she could try that and win. But to hear spoken is amusing anyway.

This is... care. Someone's caring. It feels alien, but not unwelcome. He hears something that sounds like a compliment, and he hums a question in turn. He probably misheard...]

It doesn't hurt... any more than... what's usual.... [That doesn't sound promising, he realizes.] If you're better... then we can... keep writing...

... I like hearing... you speak though...