[ well that- wasn't- what she was expecting at all. her cheeks burn dark because it's embarrassing, okay, whether it's because he misunderstood her or called her out or whatever the case, she wasn't ready for him to get mad over what she said. ]

It's not excitement, Alex. It's- It's relief. It's knowing I can actually be there if something bad happens. And that you're here for me. We're a team, remember? Or does what happened at home, our real home, not count anymore?

[ and now she's feeling defensive because that wasn't- it wasn't what she meant! ]

You don't honestly think I would try and babysit you, or undermine what you're capable of? I didn't mean that.

[ and now she's a little bit closer to him, just so she can look him in the eyes. her hands bunch into fists under the water again and she feels like a kid, like that little girl that was trying to defend herself and prove herself worthy at the same time. ]

I'm sorry I don't live up to the expectations your friends from that other world set. And that I can't read your mind to know what you've been through. [ HUFF. LIKE A FIVE YEAR-OLD. and also showing that she's more hurt than angry, but she won't be admitting that to anyone. ] You're a jerk, you know that?