It hurts when she says things like that, when she thinks his worst thoughts out loud. It's confirmation: Yes, this really is as sad as you thought it was.
“Me too,” he says thickly. If Michael weren't so worn out, he'd probably be crying again. He closes his eyes, trying to inch toward unconsciousness in any way he can. His heart beats against Lee's arm.
“Sometimes it still is, a little bit. I mean, I'll know it's not, but it's... it's there, it's confusing. I don't like it like this.”