[For just a second, she looks as if Rei had slapped her. She hadn't... meant it like that; she'd meant for her own self, she wanted to still think there could be a way to come together, to face it all together, to be strong together.

She doesn't know what to say, and for a long time, she says nothing. Then, as always, incapable of putting it elsewhere, she takes the blame on herself.]

I'm sorry, Rei-chan. [It comes out quiet, as she stifles the tears that could make Rei angrier.]

I'm sorry I wasn't here with you for all of that. I'm sorry it made you think you had to do this alone. And I'm sorry I wasn't any use even when I was there.

I'm sorry.