[She squeaks with surprise when he tugs her in, but doesn't protest other than that, nestling her chin in his shoulder and wrapping an arm around him in return. She's not Takoma but she's trying, a little.]

It helps a lot, [she murmurs with a quiet exhale. Her arms squeeze him a little more tightly.] Just being able to hear your heartbeat... it's the most comforting rhythm I can imagine.

[And his breathing, and his warmth, and just being close to him... it all fills her with the kind of courage that's usually so easy.]

I'm sorry, I should have told you sooner...