[ serge only realizes he’s let the secret slip after all that, but she successfully doesn’t make him feel judged. he lowers his hand, tentative—comforted, even if she isn’t trying to be comforting. her objective approach, softened by sympathy, is exactly what he needs.

he’ll properly thank her later. ]

…everything would be different if he were here.

[ he says this quietly. ]

If we could live in a world of our own, he would be safe. All I want is for him to be safe, Madame. That must be what’s “right,” but…

[ his voice softens even further. ]

I can’t do it.