( that isn't the first question he expects her to ask but it's out there now. and he said he'd talk. he can't take it back now.

he slides his tongue against his teeth. )

I guess I am.

( yes. )

I thought I was going to die with her in Midland Circle. I was prepared for it but she died. I survived. I don't know why. She was...the first person I ever really loved.