[Recognition pierces through the hesitation, understanding his words and the meaning behind them. Her immediate response is to finally rest her head on his shoulder, though she doesn't relax, not fully, her innate fear of hurting him more still keeping hold. She reaches down to draw the blanket upwards again. It's not out of need for warmth, but the need for cover, as if she wants to keep this to just themselves, despite no other souls being present.

She lets out another sigh, this one almost assuredly amused. Fingers move over to lay on his chest, palm open across his heart to feel its steady rhythm.]

When you mention duty, it almost sounds as if I'm an obligation you have to attend to. I don't think that's what you mean. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[The tone in her voice is teasing, almost baiting him to play along, but a refutation would be most welcomed, depending on its nature. It's also a way to keep her mind off the state he's in. Of course he's out of the woods, he'll live. But any long term effects have yet to be determined. There are a number of possibilities. She heard the medical staff talking, and she left before any details were mentioned. Some information is best left unknown.]