There was a long silence and Allen wondered if he shouldn't just walk away. She probably hated him now, knowing what he'd done. He startled when he felt her hand on his and looked up, eyes filled with confusion. What was Rukia doing? He picked up the notebook carefully and flipped open to the bookmarker.

He chewed his lip as he read, not quite sure what to make of it, but certainly words came easier on paper than they did aloud.

I don't know. That's what everyone has said. That it might be some kind of mimic, but I can't be sure.

On purpose or not, it doesn't matter. I should have been in control. I- I haven't talked with her yet. I don't know. I'm sure she must.

I don't know if she could ever forgive me something like that. I wouldn't blame her.

Wordlessly, he passed the notebook back to her, then folded his hands in his lap.