[ Maruki is complicated. The touch makes the monstrous, yawning chasm in the back of his mind poise to swallow him whole. The removal of the touch disappoints him. He can't win.

And there it is: A completely valid interpretation of his reactions, but an incorrect one. ]

No, I'm not appeasing you. I can promise you that.

[ Maruki's boundaries may be virtually nonexistent, but if he truly, wholly did not want her here, he would have said so. There is a not insignificant part of him that does appreciate the company, and her company specifically. He has been lonely for longer than he will admit to anyone, including himself. ]

I'm not uncomfortable. I'm sorry, I know it must seem that way.

[ And then a smile, beatific. ]

And I wouldn't call you insistent. I think you're incredibly caring. The people in your life are lucky to have you.