Firefly Glen and now lets repeat the non-conformist oath

His gaze remains fixed firmly on the ground — until the words I like it register fully. Inexplicably, his ears flush with heat at the strange, slightly backhanded compliment, eyes immediately returning to the woman's face. It's short-lived, though; the feeling only intensifies with the glance, and he looks back down with his heart thumping furiously. An open book, he repeats in his head, embarrassment heating his face further. He's never liked feeling transparent, especially with strangers — but it's a little thrilling in a way, too. Or maybe he's just really fucking desperate for even the slightest approval.
Um, He tries after a few beats, realizing he's been silent for too long. His voice betrays him, too, and he winces slightly at the realization. Thank you?