Steve's penis is becoming even more erect and has secreted a few drops of fluid after beginning to have sex. He is likely to be in the __________ stage of the sexual response cycle according to Masters and Johnson.

A) resolution
B) plateau
C) orgasm
D) excitement

The plateau stage of the sexual response cycle, as described by Masters and Johnson, is characterized by the intensification of sexual arousal that occurs just before orgasm. The erection becoming more pronounced and the secretion of pre-ejaculatory fluid are indicative of this phase, where sexual excitement is maintained and heightened, but orgasm has not yet been reached.