[ ... she searches her mind. Really, truly searches. It takes her a moment, as she stares at him.

But she really can't think of the last time he was just lost for words around her. Not only that, but not even looking at her. ]

Dad...

[ She pauses, then shuts her eyes and takes a deep breath. When she reopens them and fixes her gaze on his face, her expression is very serious. ]

I don't want you to tell me. Whatever happened out there ... it's done. You're ... you're still here. [ A little more quietly. But she doesn't let her gaze fall. ] That's all that matters to me. So don't feel like you have to, or like you owe me. All I need is just ... to be able to see you. Here. And maybe give you a hug. [ Her smile is faint, weak, but there. ]