[Lance is about to deny the first accusations, because that wasn't what he'd thought initially, but he stops because now he's not so sure. With a reaction like that, maybe that really is exactly what Michael is doing.

But the last comments seem a lot more important to respond to, his mental alarm bells going off, and he considers for a moment saying that yes, someone is with him. But it seems like another situation where the truth might be a better choice, although he delivers it with another dose of snappishness.]

Who exactly would I have brought with me? I don't need backup for talking.

[As long as it remains talking--which it hasn't always, whether here or at home--and that thought continues to add to the paranoia.]

You seem to be taking a lot of issue with the idea of a simple conversation.