And that's really about the reaction Mika's been expecting. If he hadn't been so utterly bewildered at her misunderstanding, he might have been less likely to blurt that out, but... well, he can't exactly take it back now.

And in a way it's easier to be certain that someone knows what he is, even if (he's sure) they inevitably fear and hate him for it, than wondering whether to expect someone to suddenly turn against him later.

"Why should I?" he asks--if she's paying attention, she might notice his fangs as he speaks, as it's not like he's trying to hide it. "Do you just believe every rumor you hear?"