[He's so delighted that he accepts the licking with little more than a "hey, hey watch the ears." He's more guarded and reserved around other people he's happy to see, but there's no one here and she's not telling anyone and it doesn't do him any good to pretend.

So, of course, when it all comes to a sudden stop, he blinks in confusion and observes her sniffing at him. He reaches a hand up to smooth down some mussed fur, and lets her have some space before gently (or as gently as he can, as he always sounds just a tad bit abrasive)] Hey, it's me. This place is good at pretending to be shit it's not, but like hell if it could replicate this. [He indicates himself.] I can see where you might be nervous though. It's been awhile.