[ Despite Stella's words, it's clear Bryn's gearing up to receive another lecture. She's tied herself up in a little knot, defensive even though she knows she's done something wrong and probably deserves to be yelled at. But it's so hypocritical, isn't it? They're all acting so horrified and skittish, like they're better than her even though Bryn knows they're all thinking about it too.

So when Stella completely jumps tracks – derails altogether, in fact – Bryn just stares at her for a moment, like she can't quite understand what she's being asked. Of all the people here, it's Wu Stella's so worked up about?

The realization thunks into place in her chest, like a key turning a stiff lock. Of course she is. After all, if Reifr was here, Bryn would be stood in Stella's place and saying exactly the same thing.

Bryn bursts out laughing. Startled, befuddled laughter because she's the butt of the joke here, even if Stella doesn't get it. She shakes her head the whole while like she can't really believe it before finally giving Stella a grin. ]

That's what you're so worried about. I see, I see. There's no need for you to worry. I'm not interested in touching so much as a hair on his head.