That word still feels hard for her, hard to use and control, but she knows Valdis understands. It's her own hangups, and nothing the other woman has done. Something that time can ease, and time they have in abundance.

In lieu of a immediate response aloud, she gently squeezes Valdis's hand, letting herself relax more. The vulnerability she offers is as solid a response as anything else, allowing her feelings to ebb and flow, fearing no judgement. No walls, no weapons. Simply herself, and trusting in this house to hold her, in the presence of her partner at her side.

Just because I can breathe free air doesn't mean I want to shy away. I'm not your girlfriend, but that's no reason to doubt what I've said about you and my future. But it's a tease, nothing more, full of mirth - the sensation of sunlight glittering on water. If anything, you can know I mean it all the more, without needing to live with your blade near my throat. Building a future means I can choose who is in it simply because I want them there.

If she must grow and fill space, then let at least some of that space be people to keep close, who support her, who will come if she says but a word. Let Valdis fill space, knowing it was set aside just for her.