[ that small bit of comfort is helpful to deanna's peace of mind and she offers a tired smile. ]
I hope you're right, Data.
[ after all, he should remember that first time she lost her empathic abilities. she had felt as though she'd lost herself in a way and dealing with the belief that it would be permanent hadn't been easy. now she's fighting that for a second time, but the idea that it'll come back another day will help her get through this one.
normally she might ask why he doubts she'll reach that goal, but today she doesn't want doubt to cloud her more than it already has. she's got enough to deal with. she'll worry with the extent of her abilities when she has them back. ]