[The thing is, for all Eddie's openness, he does also have a keen mind for body language, for reading people. That's going on in the background of his mind now, processing what the other man is giving him. But for all that, Eddie still looks easygoing, relaxed and smiling.]

Aw, come on now, would you really like it if I was bragging about myself?

[Eddie's brows raise, but he waits for Steve to get himself a pint before the server leaves and Eddie leans in a bit, engaged in what the other man is saying.]

Yeah, I feel you. I spend so much time at work or doing research or running or going to the gym or cleaning the house, I never really take much time to just...go out and try to make friends. It's harder than it seems.