[ It's very frank, and she stares at him for a long moment before settling back in her chair, hands still cupped around her mug while he sorts out his thoughts. Having known the ups and the deep deep downs that their relationship has gone through, she can't really blame Malcolm for such a worry. ]

I don't know that I can. The subconscious is a tricky thing. I guess it ties back into why you think he'd leave you, what reasons he'd have to do so.

[ She refuses to be one of those reasons - but that isn't really her call, when it comes to feelings and emotions. They aren't always logical.

But she can't quite suppress a shudder as he explains the sensation, about the trigger that would set off compliance, and there's sympathy - not pity - in her eyes. ]

I can see how that would be...I don't even think distressing covers the gamut, honestly. To have that removed must leave things feeling a bit raw, even if they're much more real.