[ He winces a little, not because she's hurt his feelings by being harsh, but because he's clearly poked a bear. One hand waves off the apologetic look and he keeps his eyes on her, wanting to let her know that she can keep talking, because he's definitely still listening.

Seeing the tenseness creeping into her, noting it in the way she's gripping the mug in front of her, Derek reaches a hand out to touch her arm. He doesn't linger, it's just enough to distract her with a tactile sensation before he moves his hand to his own mug.

His voice is low in the hopes of not being overheard. ]

I've killed people with mine. On purpose. We all fuck up, Vanya.

[ Then his voice goes back to its normal volume. ]

So...has that happened with music, yet, or just sounds? I'm sorry if I'm pushing buttons. I'm just trying to make sure I've got clear what you're experiencing so that I can see if I can help you channel it like I do.