But it wasn't your obligation to provide me with one she almost says. She swallows it down. It's true but their conversations are still such painstakingly careful affairs, she can't trust him not to take it as criticism.

Her fingers flutter over the smooth metal before she meets his eyes again. Her lips shape into a smile, small and hesitant still, uncertain. "Thank you." The smile widens a little. "Thank you for watching out for me when you didn't have to." And for so much more, for everything this gift in particular means, which it is easier not to put into words.