[Ah, now that was a response he wasn't expecting. It didn't take much on his part to realize he'd touched a nerve somewhere, and while he couldn't quite put his finger on why, well...]

I feel as if I may have picked my words poorly, I apologize.

[Acting like it was nothing but an overreaction wouldn't get him anywhere.]

You were nothing if not gracious, and I do appreciate the fact that you didn't simply bite and run. It was simply something that I'd picked up upon, and rather than dance around the subject I thought it would be better to speak it aloud and be done with any potential future uncertainty or awkwardness. I'll do better to have more care in regards to it now.

Who or what you are is of no matter to me. The quality of your person is what I find attractive.

[Frank and direct this time, at least, he'd have no misunderstandings.]