[ Is it being pragmatic or is it just being too stubborn to wholly let go of the idea that the world is only black and white? Maybe it's a bit of both. Maybe even Alan doesn't know. And maybe one day, he won't be so grounded anymore. Or at least the pretense of being grounded might one day fade. Who knows, really.

And again, is it determination or stubbornness? Maybe Alan should just slow down and not be so stubborn about pushing ahead. But to him, not pushing ahead feels too much like giving up, and he's not about to do that. ]

Really, you think so? I don't know if it would be easier. I don't actually know much of anything right now, except.. Except, well, I- I know I care about you, even though we just met.

[ He keeps touching her hair, but then he pauses. ] Is there somewhere that you... well, that you like having touched? [ He could let his hands wander and explore, and a part of him still wants to do that, but he figures he'll ask first. ]

I don't want to go either. I know, I don't have a choice. Alice... Alice is in danger too, and I can't just leave her, knowing that, but...

[ He feels like he's being pulled in two different directions, and only one of them is the one he wants. ]

At least let us stay like this for a little while longer.

[ It's said to her, but it also could be said to the story, or whoever's behind the story. ]

I don't want to let this go. What if we just- left? [ He knows it's not an option, and it contradicts what he said earlier, but he can't help this moment of selfishness. ]