[This, of course, is true; he hesitates, evaluating his statement versus hers, and then clearly comes to a decision.]

Then I will do my best to continue to be worthy of your trust.

[Because like everything, being trustworthy is an ongoing process, a state of being requiring constant cultivation as opposed to a goal that can be reached and set aside. He must be trustworthy every time the darkness reaches for her, so that when he offers his hand, she will take it.

Now he looks at her hugging herself, tilting his head, and does not smile. Or rather, he does: just a little.]

Is there anything else I can assist you with at this time, Abigail?