"I'm glad you're here, Tej. Some days I think you're the only sensible person left in the world. Or at least... you're my friend in a way no one else is. I hate that I need protecting. I never have before in my life, never. But here..."
She takes a deep breath.
"How did you learn? I want to be able to protect myself without having to run away. I cam here and had to search for my family. They're mine. I don't want to let Cass take that away from me, no matter how much he scares me. I just don't see how I have a choice right now. I don't want this to sound... y'know, freaky or anything... but right now, Tej? You're the only person in the world who could give me a reason not to keep running forever. Don't... don't take that like it's some kinda romantic bullshit. It's not like that. It's just..."
She pauses. It lasts a few seconds, then she squeezes his hand.