[He laughs and she feels a strange relief twisted in just more anxiety. It's not a conversation either of them want, but it's better now that it's started.]

I don't think any balls were dropped. [Fortunately she doesn't linger here to let anyone giggle about that phrasing, said in total seriousness.] You were making the best choice that you knew to make at the time. I can't say that I would have done anything differently.

[Is the diplomatic answer. One that she's thought a lot about and if her words sound rehearsed it's because they are.]

I can't say that I would have taken it any better had you told me the news outright. [Said with a small, humorless laugh.] But... it was very lonely for a time.

[The words come out without really thinking - honest although conflicted. She understands but that didn't make it easy in the present or in retrospect.]

I should have just asked outright. I knew that Keith was hiding something, I just didn't know what it could be.