[That simple pat reminds Iroha why his interest had been caught so vividly in the first place. He can tell it's an impressive thwack that ought to send a normal person off-balance because he's spend a lifetime judging such things so he can pretend to react appropriately. It's an unbelievable relief to just...not do that. To take that too-strong hit and without being questioned or putting his stable lifestyle in jeopardy.]

Yes, that truth must not be overlooked. Your appearance is...unparalleled. Men are a rare sight in my world. Men of your stature, I truthfully cannot claim I have once laid eyes upon your equal.

[It might sound flattering but after that over-the-top introduction he feels more at ease in offering an explanation why his gaze was pinned so firmly.]