( he watches her pick up the pieces, and he doesn't even remember what that was when he looks at it. his eyes lift from it, to watching stephanie's gaze, following where her eyes go. )

Of course, anything to watch the hope of everyone grow, including you.

( he smiles, not going to give back the book which he emphasizes by not moving his hands off of it, but his index finger taps against it in a small rhythm. )

I'm only one person, so while I will take part... you're still short, so there's nothing wrong with utilizing others.

( even if they're mean. )