Martin's face scrunched and crinkled into a grimace, reluctant to reply. He didn't have a good answer anyhow; apologizing was just what he did. It was really the only consolation he could offer, what with the failure that shadowed his every move. Sorry in advance or beforehand carried the same weight to him.

But it wasn't very clear to anyone but him, he knew.

"It's...polite," he offered feebly, feeling the heat sting his cheeks, encouraging him to move faster. On his feet, he teetered once before he slumped into balance. He kept his eyes to the ground, scanning it for the easiest way around her.

"I'm not supposed to bother anyone, anyhow."