She stands as well, though she doesn't pursue him. She hadn't done anything wrong; they weren't even speaking. And even if they had been -- well, he was the wrong alignment. He wouldn't have been an option immediately, anyway, even if they might've chosen it out of familiarity eventually.

"There weren't better options. He's not--"

She cuts herself off, inwardly cursing herself for even feeling as though she needs to defend her choice.

"I didn't do it to hurt you."