[ The snap of her voice makes him flinch and at first he thinks she's addressing him. It's only until he realizes she's not making eye contact with him that he notices someone's presence behind him. He whips around and pulls out his bola weapon threateningly.

Had it not been for Kate's comment about the stranger's hands, Matthias would have assumed the man was going to attack and steal him from him. The idea that he was interested in touching Matthias inappropriately horrifies him. What if he had been a defenseless woman? And what if Kate hadn't stopped the man in time? ]

If you would like to keep your hands, I would keep them firmly away from me. [ He makes himself perfectly clear that no matter how hot and bothered he feels, he does not want to get molested by a creep in the middle of the street. Mr. Grope seems to be looking for someone who will put up less of a fight, and so he moves on, no doubt to find his next victim.

Matthias meets Kate's gaze once the man is gone, slightly embarrassed for needing her help, but also appreciative. She has his respect now. ]

Thank you... Is it too late to ask you to escort me? The poison has affected my navigation skills.