She nodded at that. First small (still distant), then firmer, more present.

Then, perhaps because she felt it merited some kind of explanation (or perhaps it was a second chance to explain: "For a very long time . . . I've been alone. I haven't . . . had to trust anyone for a long time. I want to believe it's a good idea -- trusting others. Steven, you . . . make me want to believe it could be good. I want to."

Her eyes were quiet, dark. "I haven't had . . . luck. With any more than that. For a very, very long time."