"What about you? I'm noticing a little wear and tear."
Jeryn is taken aback slightly, though deep down she knows she shouldn't be. Hardly anyone knows her better. She wants to say "fine". She wants to say "as good as usual". She knows she can't lie. Not to him. He's never left, and has always trusted, and has always seen through the bullshit.
"I …" she sighs. It's too public. There are too many others around. They recognize her, and like it or not, they are counting on her to be strong.
That's not heavy at all.
"To tell the truth, I've been better." Her face clearly says that's not the whole of it. The slight downward turn of her mouth, the creasing of her eyes. The worry lines that mark time across her skin. It all adds up to someone just holding on to that public face of strength that has suddenly been trademarked for this war.
"Don't forget to come up for air," he says it quietly.
She keeps her face steeled, but she knows he can see the dings in the foundation.
She nods. "Keep up the good work. I'll see you back on the ship."