"I can't help the way I feel!"

The words slip out against her hesitance and her better judgement, escaping through Rose's fingers to hang in the air. Pearl's cheeks have already been faintly tinged with blue; now the colour in them heightens. Confused by her own emotions, she shuts her eyes, and keeps speaking.

"Oh, Rose...I'm sorry if it bothers you. I won't bring it up again, if that's what you want."