"Avery has become so gentle lately. It's a bit hard for me to adjust to it," Ben said. "If only she was like this back then, you two wouldn't be fighting so much."

"I'd rather she act as she did before. At least that would mean that I'm still the same man I was." Elliot set the phone down.

"Elliot, what's happening to you now is just temporary. Just think of this as taking a break." Ben could understand why Elliot was having a hard time adjusting. "It's always darkest before dawn."

"Ben, are you really that optimistic?" Elliot looked at him and drawled, "Both you and Avery are just lying."

Ben felt uncomfortable under Elliot's stare. "Would you rather I sit here and discuss your funeral with you instead? Elliot, I wasn't lying when I said I believe in Avery. It's not to calm you down or because I’m in denial. If Avery fails, no one else will be capable of saving you."

"If she has to pay a high price to do so, I'd rather she doesn't try."

"Don't overthink this and just let her try