[Amelia's ability to revert to her usual nonplussed demeanor in light of everything that has happened is rather impressive and being. With the dishes set aside, she turns her focus back to him, sitting with her legs tucked underneath her.]

I'm glad Dr. Prescott still has a high opinion of me despite everything. She's a graceful judge of character if nothing else.

[She'll probably want to sit next to her during Gale's presentation too since she's going to hardly recognize anyone else at the conference.

Amelia falls silent for another few seconds before reaching out to take his hands in hers.]

I know I apologized last night, but I want to say it again. I'm sorry for how I treated you. And don't say I have nothing to apologize for.

[Her fingers squeezes his.]

If we're going to do this, I want to be better. Not just for you, but for myself.

[Before she would have been too proud to say this aloud, too reluctant to let go of the misery that colored her past. It's easy to remain in a state of self-flagellation and believe it to be a suitable punishment.

But she needed to give herself as much grace as the people in her life have given her. Briar had always given it to her and it would be a waste to not use it to move forward with Gale.]