He can hear the whine, yes, and in that moment of pause, he begins to text back.

《Our lives are very different. We don't need to relate to work together.》

And right as he hits send the other text comes in. It startles him a little, and he sighs faintly. He does give it some thought at least? He really wracks his brain for something, and finally responds after a minute or two.

《Not much. I've met a few people who are decent enough. I read a good book or two. Everything else just makes me want to go back where it's quiet. Doesn't all this ever just exhaust you?》