Martin squints at him in a manner that seems more principle-of-the-thing than genuinely irked, and John struggles to suppress a smile until Martin lets his own show, permission implicitly granted. Even if it is followed by a mild scolding.

"Fair enough," John allows, dropping his hand to Martin's shoulder and giving him a fond little rub with his thumb. "And you're very welcome." He waits a few moments, giving Martin time to rally after his coughing spell, then ventures, "I've made up the couch, if you're up for a little relocation. Or I could just dote on you in here."