[ So much of it goes in line with his own thoughts that it seems strange to mention, but a wave of relief washes over him regardless. She seemed to understand his concerns in her own way, making it feel more like a shared responsibility rather than one-sided plea.

It was hard bearing the thought of the latter. ]

If that makes you feel any better, this is how I see it, as well. Knowing what's at stake, I can't deny feeling less confident than I've ever been.

[ He feels his cheeks growing warm under the weight of his admission. ]

That's why I wish I could answer that, but I cannot. Not now, not like this, but -- [ his features soften. ] -- it seems that each of us has their own share of problems to get out of the way first.