"I know you weren't," she says quietly. "And I know you can't. I am not looking for absolution, or trying to manoeuvre you into changing your mind. I just know I hurt you, and I am sorry for that. And I promise I won't ask you again."

Even if a part of her still wishes deep down that he would change his mind. Even if she would ask another warden, if by some ugly twist of fate he were to disappear from the Barge.