[it is hard not to notice that and she glances before being able to bring in the teasing tone he's used to.] He really didn't want me around, though. Practically screamed at me to leave him alone and slammed the door in my face. But hey, you know me. I guess fair warning to you, though. Screaming and slammed doors won't do much good when it comes to me. You'd probably break the door if you slammed it too hard anyway. [she could joke for the both of them and besides, talking about Ernest had brought back those feelings that had plagued her for ages. she didn't want to think anymore than Vander did at the moment.

it does surprise her when he makes that comment. Maria hadn't considered him thinking of her at all. that her friendship could mean something like that to him. even if he told her how much she did mean to him, Maria thought of it as simple compliments. just teasing and things they could say to one another to feel less lonely. that this rock could make him feel better, by thinking of her...

it wasn't that she didn't think he was lying about their friendship. but it had never made her realize just how important it was to him until then. she struggles for an answer until the moment has passed and it would probably be too awkward to bring it back to that. something inside her tells her she should but then something else tells her to stay quiet and just cherish it. have it as something to look back on and think fondly of.]

I would wear it. I pressed that flower you gave me so I'd always have it.