[Rei peers down at him, trying not to seem all that menacing. It's hard, given that yes she is taller, and yes she is an imposing woman, but she's trying okay? She'll get to the bombshell in a moment, but first she wants to address the first topic.]

I didn't have the choice, no, I was born to the role. However I did have the choice to continue fighting after the first time. I could have walked away.[She releases his shoulder at that and takes a breath.]

If it's a choice you've made, then don't act like it's something you have to do. I just don't want you thinking it's expected of you. Because it isn't. It's your choice.

[She pauses one more time, and smiles again, actually smiles.]

And it's the right one. I also don't want you thinking I'm doubting you. I just don't want you to thinking you have to bear the weight of the world on your shoulders and do it all. You don't. If you need time then you need time. Just like you told me to do.

[Jerking her head to the picnic table, she continued.]

And please, let's sit? I'll explain what I meant. It's a lengthy story. And you may not like what it entails, but it's all in my past. [Holding up a finger, she adds:] And rest assured, my story has a happy ending.