[That was an impressive non-answer of his own, though she doesn't try to interrupt; only nods slowly, absorbing this]

[To his return question she shrugs, helpless. He can surely see the answer to how well she's doing. Or smell it, for that matter. Perhaps that's why she's actually honest, voice going even more gruff]

...Figured you'd be fine. You got people, and you're strong. But I missed you.