[Charles puts his down, folding his hands and balancing his elbows on his knees.]

Honestly, I'm glad you brought this up, because I'm tired of everyone assuming the worst of me because of what I am and who I associate with. This isn't some scheme, I'm not solely tolerating you for the sake of other people, and I didn't mean anything by it.

If you're uncomfortable with that, I understand and I'm sorry. I won't bother you anymore.