*she very slowly comes closer a step, and pats him gently on the shoulder, with a little, grateful smile* I don't wish to cause you discomfort, though...

*She senses this willingness to humor her, and shakes her head slightly* It's not your fault; you know that. It's much more important for you to feel safe, than for me to feel like I'm helping you, if I am not. I know you are improving... but I regret that it's not something that can be solved with the same sort of finality as severing a twisted bond, or I would. *her optics dim slightly*