He really just meant toying with her heart, which is a different kind of "letting anything hurt her," but he isn't going to press the issue now when he can recognize the signs of someone who's dealing with an influx of anger. It's the breath that does it, more than the intimidating step forward because that one's easy to fake.

He holds up a hand and takes a half step back, more apology than any kind of fear or intimidation in his movements. He's not afraid either, not really. Only if Kobra fatally wounded him, and he thinks -- hopes -- someone would step in before that.

"I'm sorry, I wasn't being very nice." He pulls his hand back, so he can hold them both in front of him. "I know you wouldn't. Like I said, she told me about jumping in to save her. It's okay."