[That was initially why he tried to keep his distance; no matter how much he might have hero-worshiped the man, he couldn't bring himself to just glom on and demand to be acknowledged. He wanted to get to know Victor, and have the man at least appreciate him in turn rather than turning him into some kind of conquest. And the idea that it had happened anyway stung.

He nods at the question of cinnamon in his tea, though he does add] Just a little so it doesn't get really strong, ok?