[Maria wasn't lying when she said she wasn't strong. that she didn't have any useful skills. she had never been meant for that.

and though it unnerves her, how he stares. like he might see through her and see there's nothing there really, she meets his eyes. stares back. flirting with him will get her nowhere, being a damsel won't either, and so she'll drop those acts. she won't even say a word either for a while, just stare back.

people probably think they look insane and this does feel insane.]

My universe was screwed the moment it chose me, Carver. [she finally smiles.]

You've already won. Though I won't give up. Better to try than to do nothing, hm?