[ visibly, some taut thread of tension snaps. Rudbeckia's face lights up, and her whole body relaxes with the shock of relief that floods through her in the instant that she feels her grasping hands close around something, any kind of lifeline. she's not an idiot; it's not a promise of long-term safety. there are a lot of unknowns, but this much is more than nothing. she only needed those scraps. even though he rebukes her for it, there's no denying that, as always, hanging her head like a dog worked as she needed it. ]

Thank you... [ she rubs at her eyes quickly, as if to wipe away tears. looking up at him now, that desperate edge is gone from her expression, and instead her gaze is bright and open. ] I'm really grateful. If there's anything I can do for you...

[ it's a risky offer, but an investment. making the best of the only option she has.

with that settled for the moment, Ruby approaches him properly, hurrying to his side in light and nervous steps like a little deer. once again, she makes no move to touch him or come too close to his personal space. instead, she steps around him, and comes to a halt just past him—towards the dark path. ]

And I meant it. It doesn't matter to me which way we go.