[She bit back an immediate response to the emotional shift. She knew loss too, far more keenly than any mortal was likely able to comprehend. Lives flickered and died before her, while she persisted. Every new generation brought new friends, and new loss, so she'd taken to withdrawing from the world.

It was only those special people who truly caught her interest that she truly paid attention to anymore. And after the past few days, Barnaby was definitely on that list.

Her voice took on an edge, not angry or upset, but firmed by experience.]

It matters to me. And I think it matters to you, or you would've left by now.

[Swallowing, she goes on]

What we had, it doesn't have to end. At least, not completely.