"I know you don't need my protection, Nida, but like it or not, you're my friend and I want to protect you. I've done more for people I've known less." He takes a breath. "I just wanted to be sure that if he was playing with you... Well, from what I hear it hurts less in the beginning."

He shakes his head. "For what it is worth, as far as I can tell he is not playing with you."