[A part of him hears her, desperately wanting to believe.

But all he can think of is him offering his friendship, if he needs him, and Khalid snapping at him: I don't! How quickly he was to decide that Ashe was worth more in sex than he was in friendship, how backwards that feels, like a slap in the face.

A final step back from Ashe.]

It must be wonderful for him to have someone as understanding and patient as you. And... I envy that. But you...

You still came here. Angry. Like I'd... hurt him on purpose. You're here for him, Bernadetta. This isn't about me. It never was. It's about Khalid, as if I was this malicious person that did this on purpose.

If he wanted to be here, he should have been. But he's not, because I'm not worth the risk. I'm so good that I get to be the one standing alone.

[Rocks form between Ashe and Bernadetta, like a metaphorical wall determined to become physical. It's not one that she can't just circle around, but its formation does surprise Ashe, as if he hadn't expected it.

Then he accepts it.]

I'm not asking you to choose between us. I'd never do that. But you came here with a purpose.

I hope you achieved whatever it was.

[And he makes to leave.]