[ It’s his turn to feel sheepish and self-conscious, even if he smiles as he flushes. He doesn’t consider himself good with this sort of thing, but as in all things, he can offer the earnest truth. ]

That’s mutual. I had long resigned myself to only flings and being used, and feared this place was punishment for my failures at home. Now I think both are false. It is as you say. I cannot regret meeting you, and so I cannot believe this place is inherently bad or unlucky.

But — I still don’t think I expected you to feel the same. I am glad to be wrong.