That's not true. I think there's very little you couldn't do once you're determined enough.

[ it propels out of her without thought. or ... not wholly true, at the very least. and though he's far too lax to state it with any accusation attached, alina's voice projects a certain amount of defensiveness. not for her own sake, strangely — but for his.

she hardly wants to be counted amongst the names of his parents, slotted neatly into a category of those that had never given any support. had expected he should trip into his failures and accomplishments alone, without acknowledgment or a cushion to fall back on. ]

I just think we're going to be here awhile. Men's fingers tend to be less ... [ how does she say this kindly, and with tact. ] Gifted at lacing.

[ nailed it. that's all to say: she doubts he's ever had much reason to fiddle with corsetry and gowns, for all of his known dexterity. with inexperience comes some expected stumbling, and expected suffering along the way. her mouth droops, almost as though it's disappointed with his assessment, though her tone does soften in gradual increments. ]

I'm only counting down the minutes to my freedom. [ a touch more wryly, ] And hopeful you won't decide your hands are too tired to continue.