"Don't speak," he said.
She was quiet for a moment.
"But I want to, Steven. I want to say something."
He sighed.
"Well—say it."
"It's something I want to ask you."
"Don't ask impossibilities."
"I don't think it's impossible. At least it wouldn't be if you really knew. I want you to be more careful with me."
She paused.
He turned from her abruptly.