[She doesn't want to scare her. Or even scold her. Far from it. Camille purses her lips and that pointed edge softens.]

Ash, you need to let people worry about you sometimes. It's okay if you're not okay.

[Unbidden, her eyes skate up to her hair. Tight braids. She never asked her to undo them. Gale did.

A fierce protectiveness rolls over her. A cutting heartbreak. Then back to the dull despondency.]

...Even if you don't think I'll like the answer. I'd rather hear the truth.