[ His words make her smile; he may be surprised at the genuine fondness in the expression as her fingers squeeze gently over his hands, as she shakes her head.

Then, when he clarifies, she laughs, her expression somewhat abashed. ]

Mm, I suppose that's more what I meant. Truth be told, I have considered you among my friends for a while now. But...

[ It feels silly for her to admit, but she wanted him to know it as much as she wanted it confirmed out loud for herself. Something nice for each of them to know for certain. ]

It makes me glad to know that you consider us friends already, Monsieur Neuvillette. Especially here, I think... it's nice to know that we can stick together.