Hmm.

[ it’s not something she knows much about. for all the years she’s lived, she’s quite sheltered. he takes himself so seriously that she does feel like she needs to say something, though—so this time, when she touches his arm, it’s a soothing gesture, not a flirtatious one. ]

I would offer you comfort if I thought I could. [ a pause. ] You know, I had intended to feed from you, but now I wonder if I can.