One way or another, he will have to initiate some decisive action, as he is loathe to do so in front of a child but is distressingly lacking in alternatives.

Desire does not necessarily align with reality, but circumstantial evidence would indicate -

He has a fair idea of what it might indicate, and he would prefer not to examine it in any great length but suspects he may be forced to if this situation persists.

He watches her balance on a premeditated asymptote of her own making, her body language telegraphing her doubt and her irresolution.

Rush sighs.

He lowers the pipe in a deliberate downward arc, dropping it to his side.

"Obviously you've no plans to hurt me," he says tiredly.