[She will not force him to look at her, but she will not leave him be, either. Wordlessly, she pulls him into her arms.

What can she say that he, in such a desolate state, would truly believe? No amount of comfort can warm away self-deprication, no matter how much heart such words of hers may bear. What can she say?

How could she begin to help him see that he is no less dear to her?

She envelops him, heart fervently beating against her ribcage, her thinking just as wild in pace. It isn't about being delicate. It isn't about avoiding anything that could hurt him. It's finding a way to show him that her love is not given without understanding and acceptance, and is not naive. It is about proving that her loyalties will remain with him, along with her heart. He needs to know these things. He needs to understand.]

I wish it had not happened, my Gentle Lieutenant, but nothing about you has changed because it had. Along with my heart, you have myself and all my loyalties. I refuse to judge you for the actions of another man, and Archie, my dear, I refuse to let you think my love blind because of it.

[She takes a deep breath. She won't beg him, but she really does wish to just look him in the eyes and ask him, Please?]