[ he's afraid to bet on the happy end - every memory he has of doing so resulted in him being let down, disappointed, or hurt. Trusting people doesn't come easily to him. He still doesn't even fully remember the scope of the betrayals he faced, nor the lies he was forced to swallow.

But when he looks at her now, he can see that hope in her eyes. He doesn't understand where it comes from, after everything that's happened to her. ]

... You're strong. Stronger than me. [ he breathes out, softly. ] ... I haven't decided yet. If I'm happier being with you than I am hurting you. The others, too, of course.

[ all this time, this is what he's been worrying over, wondering if something's wrong with him, not knowing what the right answer is. he hadn't intended to ever talk about it. ]

Even knowing that, will you stand by what you said? Do you have that much hope, Stephanie? [ a beat. ] ... Do you think you can convince me?