[It's only after hearing that little "um" that it occurs to him to be slightly embarrassed. He doesn't go red because he cant' and it wouldn't be visible anyway under the gaiter and welding goggles, but the embarrassment is definitely real and pleasant.

He'd meant to say it was nice hearing living people speak in general. But... he wouldn't deny that listening to her talk specifically was nice too.

She's gone and back and then launching into an explanation of an old tv-show. He grins behind the gaiter.]

Counter question... Am I... saying who I'm... more like... who I'm friends with... or who I... would date?

[In the hypothetical world where any of that's an option.]

I like... an open mind... but a smart friend... would be handy... do you think... either is into... latino men?