Oh, lad, no-- [she holds up a hand in a pacifying gesture, the sharpness leaving her eyes. while not a full showing of empathy, Cecelia's expression is far less severe than it was at the onset.] You're quite decent, standing before the firing squad I clearly am. This is the cost of throwing yourself out there, yes? One never knows what causes friction, what bounces off, and what sponges right on through.

[she folds her hands in front of her, taking on a much softer countenance.]

I'll thank you for the generosity, since that appears to be truly where your intention resides. But I won't be taking your coin in such a fashion; it wouldn't be decent of me. Not because of some failing on you, understand?

Also...if "high school" means to you what I know it to be, it would be rather unseemly of me to accept simply on optics. [her mouth quirks in a small smirk.] But that's nothing you need worry yourself over. Keep your coin, take my thanks with it.