Lucy can only shrug again. She doesn't know what to say, or what she even feels like saying. A wave of exhaustion overwhelms her thoughts. Good timing. But uncomfortable.

"Will it make you feel better if I say yes?" she asks simply. "I'll make tea and go back to bed."

It'd be better for everyone.

A genuine half-smile, this time. She reaches out and gingerly touches Pearl's arm with the tips of her fingers, grumbling. "It's fine. Tell him I don't say hi."