When she moved, it was to Simon's credit that he didn't flinch overly much, though his head noticeably pitched back.

"With all due respect, Miss LeBeau," he said, "I'm in the rather unique position of having degrees in both engineering and biochemistry. If anyone is in a position to understand your needs, it's me. I can assure you, if we proceed, you will be in very good hands."

And, okay, maybe he could be just a liiiittle prideful when his areas of skill were being questioned.

"I'm... I'm prepared to listen to any requests," he said.