For the first time, she doesn't tense when he's suddenly beside her. His hand causes her to drop her arms and look at him, wary even as she shifts almost imperceptibly into his comforting touch. His words help to keep her anxiety at bay. After he finishes speaking, she moves forward to sit back on the edge of the couch where they started, hoping and expecting that he'll follow.

"I know nothing with me is ever easy. It's part of why I didn't have that many friends, you know? It was too hard." Her tone is free from self pity, said instead as if talking about her favorite movie. She gives him a smile, both sincere and exaggerated simultaneously. "If the offer's still good? I wouldn't mind staying at your place tonight."