[ it's gwen's turn not to know what to say. not that anything that susannah has to say is unwelcome. it's quite the opposite. civil - more than civil, warm, downright welcoming. she's not entirely sure what it is that she's being welcomed into, though.

maybe it's enough that she hasn't been outright rejected or yelled at.

she should've expected better from anyone eddie would love as much as suze, though. and maybe she should've expected better from the woman she read about in the books. but gwen's nerves have definitely gotten the better of her in this case, and she's being a lot less sensible then she can normally count on herself for.

she looks up in surprise when there's suddenly a hand on her shoulder, swallows whatever strong emotion she's feeling. ]

I never meant... [ she breathes out, trying to sort her thoughts. ] I never wanted to get in the way, or in the middle of your relationship. I really - this might sound stupid in light of everything, but I have nothing but respect for what the two of you share and I would never want to diminish that or - push my way in anywhere I don't belong.

You're married, and you've been through a lot together.

[ she's not trying to compare herself. that's all she means. and maybe that's the right thing to say and maybe it isn't - she honestly doesn't know. ]

He's really something. And - I'm glad you guys are together here. I know it was hard on him, being without the group.