Neuvillette doesn't make any move to avoid the hand reaching for his shoulder, though he does give it a look that's too weak of emotion to properly call confused. It's clear he isn't used to people touching him.

(The fabric under Casper's hand is dry, but manages to give the impression that it should be wet. The shoulder buried under all those layers is solid, though.)

"You are not alone here," Neuvillette states simply. "You have many allies, who will not stand for you to be treated in such a way, and accordingly, that man shall find he has none." Indeed, he will likely find himself with many enemies, who hold back only for Casper's sake. "Do not comply in advance. If what we can do best is to keep him away from you, then that is what we shall do."