[ As his arms wrap around her, she feels a little more... of that something from before-- almost like deja-vu, where she knows she must be feeling more than she is right now, or should, because being here with him, being held by him, she recalls, once, that it was something she wished for before. Since she doesn't have her empathy, her love and care for others, she can't feel quite that same connection here with him... It's as if she's experiencing something nostalgic, but can't quite remember what that experience was.

She doesn't move as his hand goes to correct a wayward strand of hair, but she does close her eyes and-- thinks that, when this is all over, this is something she would enjoy remembering. She's aware of herself enough on that front. It's just a shame she can't indulge in his touch now. And...

Love who I like. ] Ah... I think... that's it. I think that Chroma took away my love for others.

[ But she has to remember here, that even with her emotions, this isn't for her. Others loving her, no. It can only be one way. ] I'm envious of you.

[ She tells him, taking herself out of his arms because this is enough. Or, perhaps, too much. ] Being able to love another. [ Whether or not that's Xie Lian, or whoever he likes. ] And having another love you in return in that way.

You... are so lucky... to be mortal. Your own person. And to have that freedom.