People like to say that Linden is weak, a slave to his vices, and utterly pitiful. Sometimes, they couldn't be more right, but the truth is that it takes a lot of strength to smile, even that way, and to breathe, and to continue. Linden only survived his arena because he was able to adapt, and even if it hurts and has left a lot of scars, he can still smile, breathe, and continue on command.

He meets her eyes, catches a glimpse of some of those things she wants to say but would be very foolish to. He notes the motion of her hand crushing the napkin, and then, after a considering pause, moves his own hand forward across the table to brush it with his fingertips.

"Sometimes, even if the pieces will never be whole again... there's something to be said for keeping them all together in the same place, or at least as many as possible. I find it helps to look at the pieces... for example, I'm sitting here, enjoying a drink with my friend, and learning new things about her, so... normal, and OK, even if..." he trails off, taking his turn to recognize what he can't say.

"I'm grateful for the chances I have."