[ Harold can be cold and calculated if he has to be, but he doesn't enjoy it and it's not his natural state. Seeing Gorgug get increasingly awkward and hesitant just about crumbles his willingness to pressure him. He's so much younger than Harold was expecting, and this isn't at all like verbally fencing with a colleague his age that is being difficult.

He lets out a breath, profoundly disappointed but unwilling to take it out on Gorgug. ]

I apologize for the intrusion, then. It wasn't my intent to presume on your time, your connections or your resources. [ The words have a practiced formality, but are utterly sincere. ]

Nonetheless, if there is a logical opportunity for us to collaborate, please do think of me. I'm not normally much of a team player, but under the circumstances isolating myself seems unwise.

[ Harold offers a tiny quirk of a smile, self-aware and wry, making this a pointed jab at himself rather than at Gorgug. Though he did make it deliberately; he's concerned about him based on what he's seen so far and tentatively feeling out if his concern would be received well. ]